The Latino Commission on AIDS will host the 2026 Cielo Gala, on Friday, June 5, 2026, at Cipriani Wall Street. The annual event brings together leaders in public health, entertainment, government, advocacy, and community activism to celebrate transformative leadership in the fight against HIV/AIDS and to uplift those advancing equity and wellness for Latino and LGBTQ+ communities.

The Cielo Galas’s ongoing theme, “Designing a World Without AIDS,” will reflect this year on the impact HIV and AIDS continue to have on a new generation while motivating emerging leaders, artists, advocates, and allies to carry the torch forward in helping end the epidemic. The evening will spotlight the importance of intergenerational leadership, cultural visibility, and continued investment in prevention, education, healthcare access, and advocacy.

As one of the most recognized figures in ballroom culture and a passionate advocate for visibility and inclusion, Honey Balenciaga will use her platform to amplify the voices of marginalized communities while inspiring a new generation of changemakers in the mission towards ending HIV and achieving health equity. Her appointment as NextGen Cultural Ambassador reflects her ongoing commitment to advocacy, empowerment, and cultural leadership.

“I am deeply honored to serve as the NextGen Cultural Ambassador for the Latino Commission on AIDS,” said Honey. “Ballroom has always been more than performance — it is community, survival, healing, and activism. As someone whose life and career have been shaped by the resilience of the queer community, specifically Black and Latino queer individuals, I understand the weight it carries to use your voice and your platform to support one another. There is strength in numbers and I’m proud to stand alongside leaders and advocates who are committed to designing a world without AIDS and creating a future where the next generation can thrive unapologetically and without barriers.”

As part of the evening’s program, Honey Balenciaga will present a special ballroom performance choreographed by her and featuring dancers from the House of Balenciaga, celebrating the artistry, resilience, and cultural influence of the ballroom community.

Maria Hinojosa

Award-winning journalist Maria Hinojosa will host the evening and entertainment throughout the evening will be provided by the iconic nightlife personality DJ Lina.

“The Cielo Gala is a celebration of resilience, innovation, and leadership,” said Guillermo Chacon, president of the Latino Commission on AIDS and founder of the Hispanic Health Network. “Honey Balenciaga embodies the spirit of the next generation of advocates who are reshaping culture while advancing equity, dignity, and visibility for our communities.”

The 2026 Cielo Gala will also recognize distinguished leaders whose work continues to shape the future of HIV prevention, public policy, healthcare access, and community empowerment.

The evening’s honorees include:

• 

  MISTR

  MISTR, with the Pioneer Award to be accepted by Tristan Schukraft, CEO

• 

  Gregory Millett, MPH, Vice President and Director of Public Policy, amfAR

  Gregory Millett, MPH, Vice President and Director of Public Policy, amfAR, with the Dennis de Leon Voz de Compromiso (Voice of Commitment) Award

• 

  Mario Perez, Director of the Division of HIV and STD Programs, Los Angeles County

  Mario Perez, Director of the Division of HIV and STD Programs, Los Angeles County, with the Compañero (Partner) Award

• 

  Helen Arteaga-Landaverde, Deputy Mayor, Health & Human Services, City of NY

  Helen Arteaga-Landaverde, Deputy Mayor, Health & Human Services, City of NY, with the Esperanza (Hope) Award

• 

  Milagros Medina-Cerdeira, Broadway and Hollywood Make-up Artis

  Milagros Medina-Cerdeira, Broadway and Hollywood Make-up Artist, with the Creative Visionary Award

The 2026 Cielo Gala is expected to welcome influential voices from philanthropy, entertainment, healthcare, fashion, government, and advocacy for an unforgettable evening dedicated to impact, celebration, and continued action in the fight against HIV/AIDS.

For ticket information, and additional event details, please visit www.cielolatino.org