National AIDS Memorial Honors Pose

The National AIDS Memorial awarded its prestigious National Leadership Recognition Award that’s presented annually on World AIDS Day to Pose. The fabulous history-making & award-winning FX drama series that captured millions of hearts & minds through its powerful storytelling & authentic LGBTQ characters. The award honors leaders in the AIDS movement who shines a light on the ongoing struggle for health & social justice & the fight against stigma & discrimination by using their unique voice to help educate the public about HIV/AIDS. A Quilt panel made for Pose character Pray Tell was gifted to the National AIDS Memorial where it will become part of the AIDS Memorial Quilt’s vast collection of Quilt-related memorabilia. John Cunningham, National AIDS Memorial CEO stated, “Pose has had a far-reaching impact in helping bring the story of AIDS & the long struggle for health & social justice to the forefront through its brilliant & authentic storytelling. We are honored to present this award to all those involved in the production of Pose – the producers, writers, cast & crew – whose collective work has helped change hearts & minds.” Billy Ported concluded, “I remember the day that I went in to shoot Pray Tell's death scene & I remember in 2007 when I got the HIV diagnosis & I went through my shame because I was a part of the community that was supposed to know better & this wasn't supposed to happen. Working for four years & three seasons on this show, I was able to get to a space of profound healing for myself through the proxy of the character of Pray Tell & Steven directed that final episode & I walked in that day & I said, ‘This is the death of Pray Tell, but it's the rebirth of Billy.” For More Info…