On June 2nd, we held the 3rd Annual HALO (Holistic AIDS Advocacy, Leadership, and Opportunity) Awards at Pridelines SAFE Center. It was a beautiful night, honoring Long-Term HIV Survivors Awareness Day. It was a night full of celebration, powerful stories, and heartfelt recognition for the resilience in our community.
Photography by Kri8ed Media.
The night served as a powerful reminder that, regardless of an HIV-positive diagnosis, the work one can do is limitless. The honorees shared moving stories and experiences since their diagnoses, addressing important topics such as mental health, overcoming stigma and discrimination, and redefining what it means to be positive. A standout moment came when one of the honoree’s shared the story of the day she received her HIV diagnosis, describing her feelings of loneliness and a lack of support. This experience motivated her to start her own organization to support others in similar situations.
Eddie Orozco, Head of Health Services at Pridelines, was honored for his relentless advocacy work and his pivotal role in shaping Pridelines Health Services. His contributions have created safe spaces for sharing and learning, making Pridelines a beacon of support and education. The 3rd Annual HALO Awards honored six remarkable individuals—Glen Weinzimer, Boris Rueda, Ashley Cason, Bertha Chavis, Sherkila Shaw, and Jose Camino—for their outstanding resilience, advocacy, and leadership within the HIV/AIDS community. Each honoree shared powerful stories that highlighted their dedication to overcoming challenges and supporting others.
The event was made possible by the generous support of sponsors such as Clear Health Alliance, ViiV Healthcare, Gilead, and the Florida Department of Health. Catering by J Woods Catering provided a delightful dining experience, and entertainment was provided by Alana and Tedd. A special performance by Lady Paraiso, who wowed the audience with her rendition of "Carry On" by Martha Wash, was a highlight of the evening.
The HALO Awards emphasized the importance of telling people's stories and honoring the true heroes in our community. It was a testament to the power of advocacy and the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity. Relive the evening with us by viewing the photos by Kri8ed Media Group by checking out the full album here.
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