The Black AIDS Institute presented “16th Annual Heroes in the Struggle Awards” on September 16, 2017 at the 20th Century Fox Studios honoring Taraji P. Henson, Laverne Cox, Vanessa Williams, Alfre Woodard, Gina Belafonte and Gina Brown. All of them have made contributions to fight against HIV/AIDS in Black America.
The unique celebration was held at the Darryl F. Zanuck Theater at the 20th Century Fox Studies in Los Angeles, California for the award ceremony. An outside reception was sent beautifully on the lawn. There was a silent auction, hors d’oeuvre served along with delicious drinks. The tables were set with a beautiful bouquet of flowers. Johnson & Johnson had a photo booth. When guests took their picture, a dollar would be donated to support education to fight HIV Stigma.
Actor, Jussie Smollett was the Event Chairman and host of this luxury gala. He is also a well-known actor on “Empire” who he plays Jamal Lyon on the TV series. This year’s theme was “Black Men Honoring Black Women”, which the talented R&B singer Ledisi performed a special tribute.
The 2017 honorees not only contributes to fight against HIV/AIDS they are busy with their personal life and work. Taraji P. Henson is a Golden Globe Winner. She is an Actress on the drama series “Empire” playing Cookie Lyon. Laverne Cox is an Actress & LGBT Advocate and a Daytime Emmy Award winner. Vanessa A. Williams is an Actress and a NAACP Image Award winner. Alfre Woodard is an American Film, Stage, Television actress who has won an Emmy and a Golden Globe. Gina Belafonte is an Actress / Film Producer and lastly Gina Brown an Activist and Ambassador for “Greater than Aids”.
Many guests came out to support. It was a beautiful cool night in Los Angeles.
Tammy Townsend (Actress), Allen Maldonado (Actor- Black-ish), Mike Colter (Actor) and Danny Glover (Actor) were a few celebrities that walked the red carpet.
About Black AIDS Institute
Black AIDS Institute is an institute that has a mission to stop the AIDS pandemic in black communities. The institute conducts training, offers technical assistance, and provides information for people that have HIV/AIDS. They focus solely on black people. Their motto is “Our People, Our Problem, Our Solution.”