By Rowan Kruger
On October 15, 2023, PAC members joined together in West Hollywood Park to participate in the 38th annual Los Angeles AIDS Walk. The purpose of AIDS Walk is to fundraise and raise awareness around HIV and AIDS. Participants first gathered in the park to listen to speakers, watch performers, and engage with organizations brought to sponsor the event. The speakers included West Hollywood Mayor Sepi Shyne, Mayor Pro-Tempore John Erickson, Assembymember Rick Chavez Zbur, and more. Several PAC members and other participants were even able to receive their flu shots and Covid-19 booster shots at a Walgreens tent!
The theme of this year’s AIDS Walk was “Don’t Flake LA,” representing the importance of showing up for the cause. After collecting their “I’m not a flake” AIDS Walk T-shirts, PAC members joined thousands of other supporters walking the two mile loop through West Hollywood to show support for those affected by HIV/AIDS and contribute to efforts to combat the disease.
AIDS Walk often involves a diverse group of participants, including individuals, teams, and organizations. PAC’s team name, “Team Burrito,” has represented our organization over the years. AIDS Walk often involves a diverse group of participants, including individuals, teams, and organizations. PAC’s team name, “Team Burrito,” has represented our organization over the years. Cat Marji, PAC’s Co-Director of Cause and Community Relations, explains, “The Pediatric AIDS Coalition and AIDS Walk LA have been partners since the mid-2000s. When PAC first attended AIDS Walk, a UCLA alum would bring their beagle, Burrito, and it became a tradition for future years. Burrito would come yearly to the walk, and he became a mascot for the PAC team. Now, the Pediatric AIDS Coalition team for AIDS Walk LA is still called ‘Team Burrito’ in his honor.”
Funds raised from AIDS Walk go toward research, prevention, treatment, and support services for people living with HIV/AIDS. The money benefits APLA Health, among other organizations in LA County that include food pantries, older adult assistance, transgender support, PrEP & PEP services, and other wellness programs.
Since 1985, the walk has raised more than $92 million to help fight HIV/AIDS and this year raised a grand total of $1,302,851. These resources are crucial to supporting APLA’s services that benefit the more than 18,000 individuals in Los Angeles County living with HIV. LA County continues to have the second largest number of people living with HIV in the United States, proving the importance of the AIDS Walk’s work. The Pediatric AIDS Coalition was proud to again support the work of the AIDS Walk and not flake on the work to achieve an AIDS free generation.
Pediatric AIDS Coalition 