Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation Puts the Fight Against HIV Criminalization on the Main Stage
THE CHALLENGE:
In more than 30 states, people living with HIV face criminal prosecution due to outdated, discriminatory laws. Thanks to recent medical advancements, HIV is no longer a death sentence, and with the proper medications, there is zero risk of HIV transmission via sexual contact. The Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation (ETAF) enlisted The Artemis Agency to educate lawmakers and changemakers about its 'HIV Is Not a Crime' campaign, which works to overturn punitive HIV laws across the U.S.
THE SOLUTION:
The Artemis Agency knows the impact of storytelling in changing public perception. That’s why Artemis encouraged ETAF to leverage real personal anecdotes to educate changemakers about the complexities and outdated stigmas related to HIV and HIV criminalization. Together, Artemis and ETAF produced “Night Over America,” a live stage show based on transcripts of interviews with real individuals who have been criminalized due to HIV status. Artemis managed most aspects of the program, from conducting interviews to securing A-list actors and directors to producing all on-site aspects of the live shows.
Results:
Involvement from political leaders, including Congresswoman Barbara Lee (CA) and Harold Phillips, Director of the White House Office of National AIDS Policy.
Participation from influential acting and writing talent, including Academy Award nominee Christine Lahti; screenwriter and Pulitzer Prize finalist Jon Robin Baitz; acclaimed stage actor Justin Weaks; trans activist Mia Lozado; and Emmy Award winner Sheryl Lee Ralph.
