Health care: Vaccine-o-licious: Drag Pageant for HIV Vaccine Awareness Gets the Brooklyn Treatment

Vaccine-o-licious: Drag Pageant for HIV Vaccine Awareness Gets the Brooklyn Treatment

Brooklyn, known for its vibrant and diverse community, is set to host an extraordinary event that combines entertainment, education, and HIV awareness. Vaccine-o-licious, an annual drag pageant, is making its mark as Brooklyn's unofficial start to summer 2023. With a star-studded lineup of renowned drag performers and a powerful message of HIV vaccine research and care, this event promises to be an unforgettable experience for attendees.

1-Unveiling the Queens of Drag

Vaccine-o-licious has a history of launching drag royalty, with some of the most popular queens from "RuPaul's Drag Race" gracing its stage. Notable past participants include Tina Burner, Honey Davenport, Peppermint, and Jiggly Caliente, who returns this year as both a performer and a judge. This star power adds an extra layer of excitement to an already dazzling event.

2-A Night of Celebration and Advocacy

Hosted by New York City drag superstars Stella D'Oro and Jus Jahlisa, the competition will take place at the esteemed queer-owned mega venue, 3 Dollar Bill. The festivities kick off at 6 p.m. on Sunday, immersing attendees in a world of music, dance, and joyous revelry. However, Vaccine-o-licious is more than just a celebration; it serves as a platform to raise awareness for HIV vaccine research and establish better standards of care for those living with HIV.

3-Uniting the LGBTQ+ Community for a Worthy Cause

The visionary minds behind Vaccine-o-licious, including "Queen Mum of Vaccine" D'Oro, have designed the event to bring together the LGBTQ+ community in support of finding an HIV vaccine. Over the past two decades, this program has effectively used humor, entertainment, and extravagant wigs to educate and recruit participants for vaccine trials. Their tireless work aims to eradicate a disease that has claimed the lives of over 700,000 people in the U.S. since its first documented cases four decades ago.

4-Project Achieve: A Pillar in the Fight Against HIV

For the past 30 years, Project Achieve has played a pivotal role in the global battle against HIV. Established in 1993 as part of the New York Blood Center's Laboratory of Infectious Disease Prevention, this organization is at the forefront of vaccine research and behavioral studies involving HIV-positive men who have sex with men. Operating across the five boroughs, Project Achieve not only distributes vital HIV prevention materials but also advocates for vaccine research and facilitates potentially life-saving vaccine trials.

5-Vaccine-o-licious: The Joyful Journey of Education and Awareness

Among the myriad of events organized by Project Achieve, Vaccine-o-licious shines as a beacon of education and awareness. With infectious music, mesmerizing dance routines, and captivating performances, this event seamlessly integrates its crucial messaging throughout the show. Recruiters will be present at the venue, offering information about ongoing vaccine studies and disseminating educational materials. By combining entertainment with education, Vaccine-o-licious aims to create an immersive experience that inspires attendees to actively support HIV research and participate in the fight against the virus.

6-Expanding Community Outreach

Project Achieve's dedicated team engages in extensive community outreach efforts throughout the year. Their recruiters venture into the streets, bars, parks, and even sex venues, actively connecting with potential study participants. Social media platforms have also become invaluable tools for reaching a wider audience. By organizing special events like Vaccine-o-licious, Project Achieve further solidifies its presence within the community, fostering deeper connections and garnering increased support for their mission.

7-An Unforgettable Evening

The upcoming Vaccine-o-licious event promises attendees a night filled with excitement, generosity, and a chance to witness the talent, passion, and commitment of those involved in HIV vaccine research. In addition to the captivating performances and vibrant atmosphere, attendees will have the opportunity to participate in a raffle featuring enticing prizes such as a television and a $250 Sephora gift card. However, beyond the immediate perks, the event offers a unique platform to engage with the cause, learn about ongoing studies, and explore various ways to contribute.

8-Get Involved and Make a Difference

This is the perfect moment to become part of a movement that can shape the future of HIV prevention. Vaccine-o-licious beckons everyone to join the cause, whether as a study participant, a member of the community advisory board, or a compassionate donor. By attending this event, individuals can immerse themselves in a world of fun, connect with like-minded individuals, and discover meaningful ways to support the ongoing efforts to eradicate HIV.

Conclusion

As Brooklyn's summer kicks off, Vaccine-o-licious brings together the power of drag, education, and HIV vaccine awareness in a spectacular display of support and community engagement. This event not only entertains but also serves as a platform to advocate for a world without HIV, encouraging participation and contributions from all who are passionate about making a difference.