On Thursday, Aug. 6, the Rev. Al Sharpton, rapper and actor Common and the incomparable Patti LaBelle partnered with the AIDS Healthcare Foundation for the Vote 2 End HIV: #blackvotesmatter” concert. AID Atlanta, Robi Reed’s For Hope Foundation and LoveHealthy.org came together to galvanize voter support for government resources being directed toward AIDS prevention in minority communities.
The free show was held at the Fox Theatre in Atlanta to raise awareness about the HIV/AIDS epidemic that predominately affects the Latin and African American communities and to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Voting Rights Act of 1965.
Rev. Sharpton opened with a powerful message highlighting the health disparities among minorities. “HIV and AIDS is a civil rights issue,” he repeatedly stated while discussing the impact of the disease on minorities. He also noted that U.S citizens must actively exercise our right to vote if we want to see change.
” I think we’re in a era where treatment is prevention and people can live well with HIV. I think we need to get that message out. And I think the culture is the best way to do it,” said Michael L. Weinstein, president of AHF.
Hundreds of notable celebrities came out to support the cause, including red carpet host Johnny Wright; “RHOA” cast member Kenya Moore; former “RHOA” star NeNe Leakes; “Braxton Family Values” star Towanda Braxton; actress Jasmine Guy; actor Carl Payne; and actress Keshia Knight Pulliam.
Check out photos from the event below.
