Why I Ride

It’s been over 40 years since the first official reporting of AIDS, the epidemic has undeniably left lasting ripple effects on the LGBTQ community.  While there is ongoing work to process the collective pain, hurt and anger surrounding AIDS, a silver lining is becoming more apparent. The heightened social stigma around the disease coupled with government neglect and injustices acted as the catalyst for various identifies- gay, queer, lesbian, bisexual and transgender, to come together in order to combat the AIDS epidemic. This collective action of caring is one of the reasons I am gearing up for my third AIDS Life Cycle ride. 

Local organizations, like the San Francisco AIDS Foundation, emerged in response to the call for action during the AIDS epidemic. Continuing its mission, the SF AIDS Foundation serves as a hub, providing essential sexual health services, mental health support, substance use assistance, and housing to the LGBTQIA community. As a non-profit organization, it relies on support from others and has been hosting the AIDS Lifecycle ride since 1994—a 545-mile journey from San Francisco to Los Angeles to shed light on the impact of HIV/AIDS.

There are several reasons why I've chosen to embark on this ride again.

For myself, Queerness has always been intertwined with political action. Unfortunately, we're witnessing a concerning rise in anti-LGBTQIA bills and attitudes in the United States. In 2023, a record-breaking 510 such bills were introduced, covering issues from banning gender-affirming healthcare to regulating LGBTQIA-themed content in public school curricula.  The LGBTQIA community needs support, especially during the upcoming 2024 election. What better way to show solidarity than by supporting riders as they journey down the California coast to celebrate and honor their unique Queerness. 

I ride again to bring awareness to a Queer historic past where too many lives were lost (for many, too soon) to HIV. As a psychotherapist, I've witnessed the developmental impact the AIDS epidemic has had on the LGBTQ community, from sexual trauma to the loss of friends and chosen family, to what it means to age without having role models to lead the way. Despite progress in HIV preventable medications, transmission rates are still on the rise among queer youth and marginalized identities.

Lastly, I embark on this ride to celebrate my California roots, where I get the opportunity to experience not only the geographical diversity of our state but also its rich social and cultural tapestry.

The ride is not just a physical journey but also a mental challenge that spans months. A significant part of participating in this ride involves fundraising funds to aid current and future LGBTQIA individuals in accessing essential services provided by the SF AIDS Foundation and Los Angeles LGBTQ Center.

As part of my fundraising efforts, I will be co-hosting a talk on “Queer Couples Communication” with Marjorie Boggs Vazquez on February 7th at 12 pm. Please click the link to book a spot.  

If you wish to contribute in any way, I invite you to join me in making a difference. Whether it's a $25 donation (equivalent to a week's worth of coffee), $50 (a weekend brunch with a friend), $100 (similar to a date night with a significant other), or $250 (a weekend getaway), your contribution will assist in combating anti-LGBTQIA dialogues and support these vital community centers. 

 Even if you aren't able to contribute financially, I hope you take a moment to reflect on how HIV has impacted you, your friends, and your community.