The Latino Commission on AIDS Cielo Gala, took 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, hosted this milestone event.

Guests enjoyed 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 also presented 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 included 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.

About Latino Commission on AIDS: The Latino Commission on AIDS is a nonprofit organization dedicated to combating the HIV and AIDS epidemic in Hispanic/Latino communities through education, prevention, and advocacy.

Established in 1990, the organization has worked tirelessly to address the health inequities that disproportionately affect Hispanic/Latinos and to elevate the voices of those affected by HIV and AIDS.

The Commission provides health education; advocacy, HIV prevention, capacity building, and health behavioral research that lead to community-based initiatives that aims to reduce the spread of HIV and improve the quality of life for those living with the virus.

For more information about Latino Commission on AIDS and its many programs click here.

Cielo Gala in Celebration of 35^th Anniversary 2025, was well attended by a little over 300 people in attendance, supporting this wonderful cause. It was World Liberty TV’s 15^th Appearance covering and showcasing the Celia gala to our audience, see exclusive interview with Guillermo Chacón, President of the Latino Commission on AIDS, by clicking here.

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