AFAN Celebrates 40 Years at Black & White Party

Las Vegas’ hottest event of the year, Aid for AIDS of Nevada’s (AFAN) 38th annual Black & White Party, made a fiery return to KAOS Nightclub on Saturday, Sept. 14.

The annual fundraiser raised over $170,000—and counting— to support those living and affected by HIV/AIDS in Southern Nevada.

Hosted by Estevan Velasco and Norma Llyaman, the night featured electrifying performances from headliners VINCINT, ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race’ star Trinity K Bonet, and show-stopping acts from the cast of ‘Beyond Brunch,’ the cast of Gipsy and Piranha Nightclub, Jennifer Romas and the cast of ‘Exxcite & Sexxy the Shows,’ Harrison Barnes, Skye Dee Miles and the Love Community Choir, ‘Vegas! The Show’ and a special appearance by the ‘Chippendales.’

Guests embraced the night’s black and white theme with extravagant costumes and avant-garde fashion, surrounded by shimmering decor and photo opportunities. The event highlighted the crucial U=U (Undetectable=Untransmittable) campaign, which emphasizes that individuals on effective HIV treatment cannot transmit the virus, bringing us closer to ending the epidemic.

Every other year, AFAN honors select individuals who have shown exceptional generosity of time, resources, and energy toward the cause by granting them the ‘Right to Wear Red’ in a sea of black and white.

This year’s honorees include leaders across nonprofits, hospitality, advocacy groups, and longtime AFAN donors and supporters. The ‘Right to Wear Red’ honorees include:

Anthony DeFelice, Summer Communications
Chris Adams, Piranha and Gipsy
Dana Benrud, Urban Nest Realty
Guy Sheets, The Garage
Heather Shoop, Clark County Social Services, Office of HIV
Hydeia Broadbent, HIV Activist
Jennifer Caballero, Las Vegas Kaminari Taiko Drummers
Joanna Baumann, iHeart Media
John Waldron, The Center
Jon Sparer, AFAN Donor
Kiely Campbell, The Wynn Resorts
Latoya Holman, The Public Education Foundation
Mike Tafoya, Piranha and Gipsy
Monica Moradkhan, The Wynn Resorts
Robert Largo, The Garage

“This year’s ‘Right to Wear Red’ honorees represent the heart and soul of our community. Their dedication to our cause inspires all of us to continue fighting for a future free of HIV stigma and inequality,” said Antioco Carrillo, AFAN’s executive director.

To honor AFAN’s 40th year of service, a moment of reflection was held to acknowledge the loved ones we have lost and praise those still on the front lines working to end the epidemic. A heartfelt performance by the Love Community Choir and a tribute video showcasing a timeline of important moments in the fight against HIV/AIDS moved attendees and served as a reminder of the night’s purpose.

“Tonight, we honor those we have lost and celebrate those still pushing for progress,” said Carrillo. “The U=U campaign is revolutionary because it removes the fear and stigma surrounding HIV. People living with HIV who maintain an undetectable viral load through treatment cannot transmit the virus to others. This is the future of HIV prevention, and at AFAN, we are committed to ensuring everyone has access to the resources and education they need.”

Guests enjoyed poolside cuisine and cocktails provided by Mabel’s BBQ, Scotch 80 Prime, Palms Pastry, Arby’s, Taco Bell, Smoking Pig BBQ, Caked Las Vegas, Montucky Cold Snack, Bad Ass Coffee of Hawaii, Korbel California Champagne, Maki Junmai Sake, White Claw, DAOU Vineyards, Herradura Tequila, Cazadores Tequila, Kettle One Vodka, Co-Op Frose, Caffé Borghetti Espresso Liqueur, and Facundo Paraiso Rum.

AFAN’s 38th annual Black & White Party is presented in collaboration with Clark County’s Love! Live! U=U campaign, underscores the importance of awareness and accessible resources in the fight against HIV/AIDS. To explore U=U and access local resources, please visit uequalsulas.com. For more information on future AFAN events, visit afanlv.org.

About AFAN
Aid for AIDS of Nevada (AFAN) was founded in 1984 and is the oldest and largest AIDS service organization in the state of Nevada. 2024 marks AFAN’s 40th anniversary of practicing its unyielding commitment to the community by providing unparalleled health expertise, support and advocacy for adults and children living with and affected by HIV/AIDS in southern Nevada.

Over the years, AFAN has created various programs that offer consistent and comprehensive assistance including HIV testing, medical case management, medical transportation, housing assistance, medication referral, food programs, prevention and education and community outreach.

As part of AFAN’s mission, these client service programs assist in enhancing the physical health and psychosocial wellness of the individuals they serve, while promoting dignity and improving the quality of their lives.

For more information, please visit afanlv.org. Keep up with AFAN events and news on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.