The Latino Commission on AIDS will host  its annual benefit event, Cielo Latino, on Friday, June 2, 2023, at  Cipriani Wall Street in New York City, kicking off Pride month with the commitment towards  Zero Homophobia and Zero Transphobia in communities by recognizing the fifth anniversary  of the ZERO Campaign.

The event will recognize several individuals who continue the fight against HIV and AIDS. Those being honored are Miss Universe  R’Bonney Gabriel who has been inducted as the newest Madrina of the Commission, and Dr. Iván Meléndez-Rivera, founder of Puerto Rico based nonprofit Centro Ararat, Fundación LatinoAmericana de Acción Social (FLAS) whose award will be accepted by Founder Elia Chinó.

Guillermo Chacon, president of the Latino Commission on AIDs with Cielo Latino 2023 Madrina Miss Universe R’Bonney Gabriel

“We are humbled and absolutely thrilled to be joined by amazing leaders and advocates in the fight against HIV and AIDS as we continue our mission for creating safe spaces where all Latinx people can access proper healthcare.” said Guillermo Chacon, President of the Latino Commission on AIDS. “Latinos remain disproportionately affected by HIV, both in terms of new HIV diagnosis and the total number of HIV cases. We must resist the urge of complacency and continue education and prevention efforts in all communities until we eradicate the virus completely!”

The Cielo Gala is an important platform to recognize the work of those who support the Commission’s goals of ending HIV and AIDS and improving overall health outcomes and wellness for the Hispanic/Latinx community. As the founder of Centro Ararat, Dr. Iván Meléndez-Rivera fights every day to utilize community efforts to create health systems that provide accessible HIV care to the people of Puerto Rico. He is receiving the Esperanza (Hope) Award for contributing to a sense of hope and possibility for preventing HIV and ending AIDS.

FLAS has been instrumental in providing education, counseling and testing, and treatment referrals for Latinos who have been affected by HIV/AIDS. The Houston based organization has been critical in providing COVID-19, Hepatitis, and HIV aid to vulnerable communities and is being recognized with the Fuerza Award for its continued commitment to breaking down barriers to healthcare. Its Founder and CEO Elia Chinó is a nationally respected advocate working towards amplifying Latinx voices and creating a healthier environment for members of the Latino community.

The organization will also honor singer, actor, and model Laith Ashley with its esteemed Ilka Award at the event. Cielo Latino has historically honored the late actress Ilka Tanya Payán  by awarding the ILKA AWARD to an outspoken and supportive celebrity who dedicates their  voice and time to the HIV and AIDS causes.  

“We are thrilled to honor Laith Ashley with this year’s Ilka Award for his stigma-defying roles  and activism, and for his dedication to creating equitable health spaces for trans and gender nonconforming people,” added Chacon. “As we lift up our Zero Campaign to counter homophobia and transphobia, which are  barriers to quality health and equity for LGBTQ+ people, it is fitting to recognize Mr. Ashley for  his genuine care and concern, and for lending his voice to the cause of health equity.”  

The Cielo Gala will be hosted by Alfredo Galván, the morning show host for 93.1 Amor.  Through his morning show, “La Bodega en La Mañana,” Galván has been intentional about  telling the stories of Latinos in New York.  

Three-time Grammy-winning Spanish Harlem Orchestra along with DJ Missy B will provide  live entertainment during the event. 

To buy tickets or to donate to the Latino Commission on AIDS in support of its Zero Campaign,  please visit www.cielolatino.org.