Piedmont Park was buzzing with vitality on Saturday as lots of gathered for the rescheduled thirty third Annual AIDS Stroll Atlanta Music Competition and 5K Run, headlined by Lil’ Kim.
As beforehand reported, the stroll was initially postponed as a result of Hurricane Helene however returned stronger than ever, mixing consciousness, group assist, and leisure, and when Lil’ Kim hit the stage, it was nothing wanting a popping present.
With dancers, dramatic smoke results, and her plain stage presence, Lil’ Kim owned the group from the second she stepped on stage. Her efficiency was a visible spectacle, full with lights, pyrotechnics, and a backup crew that stored the viewers hyped all through the present.
“The Queen Bee” dropped hit after hit, leaving followers in awe as they celebrated each the trigger and the tradition, however it wasn’t simply concerning the music. This occasion served as a robust reminder of the significance of HIV/AIDS consciousness, notably in Atlanta, which continues to face a few of the highest charges of latest diagnoses.
Actually, in response to the Facilities for Illness Management and Prevention (CDC), Atlanta ranks among the many U.S. cities with the best HIV charges, with an estimated 1 in 51 folks residing with HIV within the metro space.
BOSSIP’s personal Lauryn Bass was on the bottom, not solely masking the occasion but additionally talking with notable figures in attendance. A type of voices was Gary With Da Tea from the “Rickey Smiley Morning Present”, who helped host the occasion and introduced his signature appeal to the event.
In an unique interview with Lauryn, Gary shared his enthusiasm concerning the day, saying, “It’s a lovely day within the neighborhood, and we gonna all nonetheless be neighbors.”
Gary’s message was easy but impactful: it’s time to lift consciousness concerning the sources accessible for folks residing with HIV. Particularly as Atlanta is constant to develop into an epicenter that many are relocating to.
“Lots of people don’t know concerning the completely different sources that they will get,” he defined. “My recommendation is to attach with AHF (AIDS Healthcare Basis). They’ve numerous sources, and it’s all proper there. Honey, simply Google it—it’s at your fingertips.”
A Day Full Of Sources And Help
One of the crucial vital features of AIDS Stroll Atlanta was the plethora of sources accessible to attendees. Quite a few distributors and organizations arrange cubicles, providing free HIV testing, academic supplies, and wellness kits.
Amongst these advocating for assist was Dr. Cassandra Kidd, who spoke with Lauryn Bass about the necessity to scale back the stigma surrounding HIV and encourage extra folks to get examined.
“It’s a pleasure to have the ability to get out and assist the Atlanta group, particularly with the HIV charges near South Sahara Africa down right here in Atlanta, Georgia,” Dr. Kidd said. “The largest factor I’ve seen is that individuals are afraid to know their standing, and we’re right here to assist you.”
Dr. Kidd works with Atlanta HIV, a testing facility in Rockdale County, the place they supply HIV and STD testing, consultations, and psychological well being assist. “We take a look at them in 60 seconds, and also you’ll know your standing on the spot,” she defined.
Dr. Kidd additionally highlighted the widespread signs she’s seen in sufferers who’ve examined constructive for HIV, akin to “signs on the fingers and fingers, thrush within the mouth, and flu-like signs that simply received’t go away.”
Her message was clear: early testing and prognosis can save lives, and there are sources accessible to assist at each stage.
Lil’ Kim’s Present Stopping Efficiency And Competition Vibes
The stroll itself went easily, with contributors weaving via Piedmont Park “The Meadow.”
Attendees might be discovered decked out in face paint, colourful T-shirts, and a great deal of vitality. The environment was festive, with cubicles providing freebies like water bottles, T-shirts, and branded merchandise.
However the buzz of the day was Lil’ Kim’s efficiency. As smoke billowed throughout the stage, the Queen Bee delivered an unforgettable set with electrifying dancers and visuals that had the group mesmerized. Her high-energy efficiency was the proper closing act for a day devoted to each celebration and consciousness.
Preventing Stigma And Elevating Consciousness
As Dr. Cassandra Kidd identified, one of the vital messages of the day was preventing the stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS.
“Persons are being handled as if they’re contagious, however they’re human beings. It takes only one time so that you can be related to the stigma, so be sure to respect everybody and deal with everybody pretty,” Dr. Kidd stated.
As she was referencing the big “Cease the Stigma” indicators displayed all through the occasion, it was clear that today was additionally vital for illustration, inclusion and group.
This message was echoed by Gary With Da Tea, who shared his hope.
“Anyone, honey, is touched and will get the assistance that they want. Lots of people don’t notice the sources they may have, and simply coming to this occasion, honey, you possibly can positively discover all of the aid you want.”
Making A Distinction
The thirty third Annual AIDS Stroll Atlanta Music Competition and 5k Run raised over $1 million for 13 native organizations, together with AID Atlanta, Georgia Equality, and the Trans Ladies of Coloration Therapeutic Challenge, all of which give crucial assist for people affected by HIV/AIDS in Atlanta.
The occasion served not solely as a platform for leisure but additionally as an area for schooling, advocacy, and alter. By bringing collectively folks from all walks of life, the day proved that the combat towards HIV/AIDS is stronger than ever.
Keep tuned for extra unique post-event video protection from BOSSIP’s Lauryn Bass on Instagram.