Actress and activist Michaela Jaé Rodriguez will receive the first-ever Voice of Visibility Award this Sunday at the 42nd annual AIDS Walk Los Angeles. The honor recognizes her significant efforts in raising awareness about HIV/AIDS and advocating for the transgender community throughout Southern California.
The award ceremony will take place during the event’s opening ceremonies at West Hollywood Park, beginning at 10:30 a.m. Actor and comedian Joel Kim Booster is scheduled to present the award. Following the presentation, singer David Archuleta will perform for attendees before participants embark on a two-mile walk through West Hollywood’s Rainbow District.
The annual fundraiser, organized by APLA Health, plays a crucial role in supporting HIV prevention, treatment, and a range of other health care services across Los Angeles County.
Upon the initial announcement, Rodriguez highlighted the persistent gap between available medical advancements and equitable access to care. She noted that while testing, treatment, and consistent care are known to save lives, marginalized communities, particularly Black and Brown transgender women, continue to face a disproportionate burden. Rodriguez also stressed the importance of unwavering support for these communities, regardless of shifts in the political landscape.
APLA Health officials stated that Rodriguez was chosen for the award due to her dedication to increasing awareness, reducing the stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS, and advocating for transgender individuals. Craig E. Thompson, CEO of APLA Health, underscored her impact, saying, “Voices like hers keep HIV and equity in the public conversation at a time when it would be easy to look away.”
Rodriguez, known for her roles in the television series “Pose” and “Loot,” has been a trailblazer in the entertainment industry. In 2022, she made history as the first openly transgender actress to win a Golden Globe, earning the award for best actress in a television drama for her work on “Pose.” She also achieved another milestone as the first transgender woman to be nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award in a leading acting category for the same series.
This year’s AIDS Walk theme, “Defend Care, Demand Action,” underscores the importance of accessible HIV testing, prevention, treatment, and continuous medical care. The event will feature remarks from activists, various entertainment, and booths representing community organizations before the walk commences.
APLA Health, formerly known as AIDS Project Los Angeles, serves over 23,000 people each year, providing vital services that include HIV treatment, primary medical care, dental and behavioral health services, and assistance with food and housing needs. The 42nd annual AIDS Walk Los Angeles will be held at West Hollywood Park, located at 647 N. San Vicente Blvd.
