#United States #Los Angeles #Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation #Laverne Cox #Amber Riley

Laverne Cox and Amber Riley Join Forces for HIV Awareness

On February 28, 2026, the Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation (ETAF) observed the annual HIV IS NOT A CRIME Awareness Day, a national initiative aimed at modernizing antiquated HIV laws that unjustly criminalize those living with the virus. Advocates Laverne Cox and Amber Riley have stepped into the spotlight as the latest ETAF Champions, committing their voices to this essential cause.

A Call to Action

Cox and Riley will lead a nationwide effort to reform laws that in over 30 states still treat HIV status as a criminal offense. These outdated laws, rooted in the misconceptions of the 1980s, continue to have dire consequences, particularly for marginalized communities, especially Black and trans individuals. As Cox points out, "Under these laws, people living with HIV can be imprisoned and branded criminals for actions that carry effectively zero risk. The law should never punish individuals for existing with a virus that science has rendered treatable and non-transmissible."

Despite advancements in HIV medications, which can suppress the virus to undetectable levels, individuals in many states are still facing charges solely based on their HIV status. This reality contradicts medical progress and heightens stigma, discouraging vital testing and treatment as highlighted by the CDC's findings.

Advocating for Change

Amber Riley resonates with the urgency of this campaign, stating, "HIV criminalization targets our friends, our family, and our neighbors. I'm proud to join The Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation as a Champion and help stand up for the families and communities being torn apart by laws that have no basis in modern science." The momentum behind this movement is crucial—not just for immediate reform but for reshaping the narrative around HIV to eradicate stigma and celebrate dignity.

The campaign, supported by Gilead Sciences and other advocates, solidifies ETAF's commitment to fighting these outdated laws, which do not reflect today’s understanding of HIV treatment and prevention. ETAF’s initiatives have expanded globally to ensure that educational resources and access to treatment remain prioritized and available.

The Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation's Mission

Founded by the iconic Elizabeth Taylor in 1991, ETAF has been at the forefront of HIV/AIDS advocacy for decades. The organization aims to provide direct support for those living with HIV while transforming how society perceives and interacts with this community. Through various programs, ETAF collaborates with healthcare entities and conducts outreach to ensure those at risk or already affected receive essential care and support.

To learn more about their mission and ongoing campaigns against HIV criminalization, visit ETAF's official website. The collective effort by public figures like Cox and Riley heralds a new chapter in the fight for justice and dignity for individuals living with HIV. It's a movement rekindling advocacy based on compassion and understanding, pushing for laws that reflect modern science and humanity.

As we continue to commemorate events like the HIV IS NOT A CRIME Awareness Day, the involvement of influential voices like Laverne Cox and Amber Riley serves as a beacon of hope and resilience, guiding the fight towards a future where HIV is acknowledged not with stigma, but with understanding and respect.