Sir Elton John has expressed outrage over Donald Trump’s significant cuts to the federal budget for HIV research, emphasising that care for the condition should be “prioritised and protected”. The cuts have resulted in the elimination of at least 145 grants, totalling over £339 million.
In response, Elton John and his collaborator, Brandi Carlile, have joined forces to launch the Who Believes In Angels campaign, aiming to address the urgent global humanitarian crisis caused by recent cuts to HIV/AIDS funding in the United States.
This initiative, named after their new chart-topping album, seeks donations from the public, which the duo will then match to amplify the impact. The Elton John AIDS Foundation and Brandi’s Looking Out Foundation will oversee the campaign, with the goal of averting a “global health crisis”.
The superstar singer launched the Elton John AIDS Foundation back in 1992 and it has become a leader in the global response to HIV. Since 1992, the foundationhas raised more than $600 million to support over 3,100 projects in 95 countries globally to increase access to health care, tackle LGBTQ+ stigma, and end AIDS.
In a statement Sir Elton John stated: “Without prompt action, decades of progress in the global fight against HIV could be reversed, creating a global health crisis that we have both the power and the tools to prevent.” He further highlighted the importance of their mission, saying: “Our mission is more important than ever – we refuse to leave anyone behind – and I’m so fortunate that Brandi is not only a wonderful collaborator and artist, but a dear friend who shares my vision of a world where HIV care is prioritised and protected.”, reports the Express.
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Elton and Brandi have an ambitious target to raise at least £1 million to support scientists in their quest for a breakthrough in preventing HIV transmission and enhancing the quality of life for those affected by the condition.
The UK’s Labour party has set a bold goal to eradicate all new HIV cases by 2030, and they’re planning to unveil an action plan this coming July. Demonstrating his commitment to the cause, Keir Starmer took a public HIV test, marking him as the first G20 leader to do so and raising the profile of HIV awareness significantly.
Nevertheless, there’s considerable concern that Donald Trump’s recent cuts to funding could hinder global progress and potentially derail the UK from meeting its ambitious target for zero new HIV transmissions.
In response to the urgent need for support, Brandi’s foundation made a stirring announcement: “every donation will be matched by LOF, up to $100,000, doubling your impact to protect HIV prevention and care services across the U.S. and around the world…Let’s keep the music – and the momentum – going.”
For those inspired to contribute, donations can be made via the Looking Out Foundation’s website, detailed here for reader convenience.
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