Hyacinth Foundation 39th Gala (AUDIO)

Hyacinth Foundation will host its 39th annual Gala & Silent Auction in celebration of those who have fought to end HIV/AIDS in New Jersey. This year’s Hyacinth Award recipient is actor/activist Jason A. Rodriquez best known for his role as Lamar Extravaganza on the groundbreaking FOX hit series POSE. Rodriquez has been a longtime vocal advocate for LGBTQ youth, most visibly around the importance of sexual health & HIV prevention. He recently partnered with Gilead as a highly visible spokesperson for the effective use of PrEP & through his work as a teacher & ballroom leader focuses on supporting & educating LGBTQ youth to thrive & live healthy active lives. Also being honored is esteemed New Jersey State Senate Majority Leader M. Teresa Ruiz who will be recognized with the Riki Jacobs Social Justice Award for her unwavering commitment to education reform, social justice & community development. Sal Susino Manager of Special Initiatives for the Prevention Resource Network at the VNA & Shannon Preston, Executive Director of HIV Services at the VNA will both be celebrated & honored for their impactful advocacy & leadership with the Deloris Dockrey Award. The fabulous November 2nd event takes place against the elegant backdrop of the Newark Museum of Art & will feature a night of exquisite cocktails, gourmet hors d’oeuvres provided by David Ellis Events, a spectacular silent auction & an evening of chic mingling & entertainment. I talked to Jason A. Rodriquez in this exclusive podcast during the Creating Change Conference last February in New Orleans about what he hopes to accomplish with his work & his spin on our LGBTQ issues. LISTEN

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