Celebrate World AIDS Day With Drag Stars At Open Arms

In over four decades, our community faced a virus that had taken many precious lives throughout its time. HIV/AIDS is still part of our community, with thousands of Minnesotans living with this virus.

Every year on December 1, we take a moment to remember those who have passed before us, who are currently living with this virus, and to rally around ways to find a way to stop it for good.

This World AIDS Day, Open Arms of Minnesota will open up their Minneapolis Kitchen and Campus for their first Drag Happy Hour. From 5:00 PM-7:00 PM, there will be entertainment along with a “enlightenment and advocacy.”

In a statement from Open Arms of Minnesota, the organizers explained that “as we gather, we aim to acknowledge and stand by our clients who are impacted by HIV/AIDS. Indulge in delectable cuisine, savor signature cocktails, and engage in meaningful discussions while our glamorous performers captivate you with their talent and charisma. They’ll also shed light on the enduring struggles faced by those impacted by HIV/AIDS and how Open Arms plays a pivotal role in offering support.”

Scheduled to perform at this event will drag artists Ruby Jewel Cassadine, Lady Cummeal Cassadine, Rustina Phoenix-Nuttz, and Sainte Reign. DJ Daddy Rox will hold down the turntables to provide the beats during this event.

Open Arms of Minnesota has been on the forefront of the efforts to work through the challenges HIV/AIDS had – and continues to do so – on the LGBTQ+ community. Back in 1986, the efforts of Open Arms of Minnesota began with members of the community cooking meals to be delivered to those who were affected by this disease/virus. That focus has evolved to include multiple illnesses including Cancer, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), Multiple Sclerosis (MS), End Stage Renal Disease (ESRD), Congestive Heart Failure (CHF), and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).

In addition, Open Arms also said that “on World AIDS Day, we also pay tribute to the cherished individuals we’ve lost along this journey.” This to help continue the legacy of how HIV/AIDS impacted our community an continues to do so today.

As Open Arms of Minnesota sees food as medicine and nourishment for their clients, and a way to create and build community. Not just for LGBTQ+ people, but for BIPOC communities, as well. They welcome people from diverse communities in a united effort towards accomplishing their goals.

The proceeds from this event will support Open Arms of Minnesota’s continued efforts to provide medically tailored meals for people with life-threatening illnesses, including HIV/AIDS. This is done at no cost to their clients.

Open Arms of Minnesota World AIDS Days Drag Happy Hour
December 1, 5:00-7:00 PM
Open Arms of Minnesota – Minneapolis Kitchen & Campus, 2500 Bloomington Ave. S., Minneapolis
Tickets: $86.00
https://donate.openarmsmn.org/event/open-arms-world-aids-day-drag-happy-hour/e527647/register/new/select-tickets