More people than ever know that today is World AIDS Day today. We owe that to Alicia Keys, who created a genius campaign where her celebrity friends like Kim Kardashian, Justin Timberlake, Ryan Seacrest and Lady Gaga have effectively “died” on social media until Keys raises $1 million for her Keep a Child Alive Foundation, which provides support and medical care to children living with AIDS and HIV in Africa and India.
More than 33 million people worldwide suffer from HIV. Over 7,300 more are infected each day. Approximately 1.1 million Americans have HIV and many don’t even know they are infected.
But Keys isn’t the only celebrity who has been raising awareness of the fight against AIDS and HIV. The Anti-Gossip wants to celebrate those boldfaced names who have lent their star power to combat this deadly disease across the globe.
Singer Elton John will guest edit today’s issue of the UK newspaper The Independent. Proceeds from today’s circulation revenues will benefit the Elton John AIDS Foundation.
“I was thrilled to be invited to guest edit The Independent,” the Rocket Man said in a statement.
“I’m really looking forward to spending a day in the editor’s chair, and I’m pleased to get the chance to put the subject of Aids at the top of the editorial agenda.”
Bill Clinton and Elizabeth Taylor will contribute columns to today’s paper.
Delightful alternative rock band The Killers released their Christmas single “Boots” this week in support of (RED). Proceeds will go to the Global Fund to help fight AIDS in Africa.
“Our Christmas single with (RED) is one of our traditions as a band. We didn’t want to let it fall by the wayside just because we’re on hiatus; this cause is too important,” said Killers’ front man Brandon Flowers in a press release. “(RED) is an organization that we’re proud to help support, and we’re thrilled that Starbucks will be hosting our video for charity this year as well.”
Many of us think about the fight against AIDS and HIV just one day out of the year. Let’s hope that these famous faces can keep the issue in front of all of our faces year round.
Photos Courtesy of PR Photos.