LKAPS December Newsletter

President’s Message

As we enter December — a time when the world traditionally pauses to commemorate World AIDS Day — we want to note a troubling new development: for the first time since its inception, the U.S. federal government has announced it will no longer officially commemorate World AIDS Day.

A publicly accessible report on this decision can be found here: https://www.advocate.com/news/trump-no-world-aids-day

While this federal decision may attempt to diminish official recognition, it strengthens our resolve. Our community has always led the way in remembrance, visibility, and activism. We encourage everyone to honor World AIDS Day in your own meaningful ways, through reflection, storytelling, or support for people living with HIV, and to continue lifting up the history and future of our community. Additional global context on World AIDS Day can be found at UNAIDS:  https://www.unaids.org/en/2025-world-aids-day

This month, I also want to express deep gratitude to our Social Committee members and volunteer leaders. Many of us are aging out of the physical work required to run events, yet these dedicated individuals continue to show up, organize, and keep our gatherings vibrant. Their commitment sustains LKAPS, and we are endlessly thankful.

In this season of giving, we are grateful for the financial support that pays for venues, events, and services that allow volunteers to take a less active role when needed. If you are able, please consider a year‑end donation. You can contribute via our website or by mailing a check payable to Let’s Kick ASS Palm Springs to:

P.O. Box 5482, Palm Springs, CA 92263

Thank you for your generosity and for standing with LKAPS. We look forward to seeing you in the new year — the beginning of our second decade of service.

Warmly,
Jax
Jax Kelly, President, JaxKelly@LKAPS.org