London's iconic Royal Vauxhall Tavern will host a deeply moving World AIDS Day event this November, bringing the community together for an evening of remembrance and celebration.
A Night of Reflection and Resilience
The event, titled We Look Back, We Live On, will take place on Sunday 30 November at the historic LGBTQ venue in Vauxhall. Organised by volunteer-led group Impulse London, the gathering aims to honour those lost to AIDS-related illnesses while acknowledging the significant progress made in HIV treatment and prevention over the past forty years.
Acting President of Impulse London Chris Gunner explained their vision: "For World AIDS Day, we want to redefine the narrative around HIV and celebrate the strength and resilience of our amazing community. For decades, our community has been unstoppable when we have stood together."
Programme of Healing and Hope
The evening will begin with a red light vigil, creating space for attendees to remember friends, family members and community figures affected by AIDS-related illness and chemsex harm. The London Gay Men's Chorus will provide a musical tribute during this reflective moment.
Throughout the event, personal stories from people living with HIV and representatives from groups like Fast Track Cities will highlight advancements in prevention, treatment and community support. Organisers particularly want to raise awareness about important messages like U=U (Undetectable = Untransmittable) and prevention tools such as PrEP.
Community Support and Celebration
Following the vigil, community artists will take the stage to celebrate the idea that joy is a form of resistance. Harm reduction resources and signposting for HIV and chemsex support will be available throughout the evening.
Impulse London has partnered with Good Boi Candles to launch a special candle called Redefined, marking progress in HIV advocacy and the shifting narrative around living well with HIV.
The free event promises to be both powerful and hopeful, with organisers encouraging advance booking. We Look Back, We Live On runs from 4:30pm at the Royal Vauxhall Tavern, 372 Kennington Lane, SE11 5HY.
