The Latino Commission on AIDS is making final preparations for its Cielo Gala, taking place on Friday, June 6, 2025, at the elegant Cipriani Wall Street in New York City. Marking the organization’s 35th anniversary, the Gala continues its tradition under the theme Designing a World without AIDS, honoring trailblazers in the fight against HIV and AIDS while raising vital funds to support the Commission’s advocacy and community-based programs.

Acclaimed actors and comedians Dominic Colón and Jenni Ruiz, bringing a blend of warmth and humor to an inspiring evening, will host this milestone event.

Guests will enjoy a dynamic program featuring live entertainment by the Grammy Award-winning Spanish Harlem Orchestra and a fashion presentation spotlighting designers Cindy Castro and Adrian Alicea.

The Commission will also present the Ilka Award, named in memory of Dominican actor and activist Ilka Tanya Payán, who courageously battled AIDS and passed away in 1996. This year’s honoree is Daphne Rubin-Vega, the celebrated actor and advocate, recognized for her unwavering commitment to raising awareness and breaking stigma surrounding HIV and AIDS since her breakout role as “Mimi” in the original Rent.

“The Cielo Gala is not only a celebration of resilience and progress, but a call to action,” said Guillermo Chacón, President of the Latino Commission on AIDS. “As we celebrate 35 years of community service, we reflect on how far we’ve come and recommit to the work ahead—especially in the Hispanic/Latino community, where new HIV infections remain
disproportionately high and services are threatened by several challenges.”

This year’s Cielo Awards will honor outstanding leaders and organizations making a difference:

• Esperanza Award – Dr. Laura Cheever, former Associate Administrator, HIV/AIDS Bureau, HRSA, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, for her groundbreaking work in HIV treatment and care.

• Compañero Award – Hispanic Federation, for its enduring partnership and leadership in improving the quality of life for Latino communities affected by HIV/AIDS.

• Business Leadership Award – Michael Dowling, CEO of Northwell Health, for his corporate leadership and advocacy in health equity.

• Dennis de León Voz de Compromiso Award – Francisco Ruiz, former Director of the White House Office of National AIDS Policy, for his unwavering commitment to HIV education, leadership development and public service.

In addition to dynamic entertainment, the evening will include cocktails, dinner, and a silent auction, with proceeds benefiting the Commission’s work in prevention, education, healthcare access, and health policy advocacy.

The Cielo Gala also continues to highlight the Commission’s partnership with the Hispanic Health Network, reinforcing efforts to expand access to care and address health disparities within Latino communities nationwide.

For more information on tickets, visit www.cielolatino.org.