Purse first! HIV rights charity launches drag-themed fundraiser

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National AIDS Trust, the UK’s HIV rights charity, is today announcing the launch of a new fundraising initiative: Drag Raise.
Drag as an art form has played an important role in HIV activism, offering strength, relief and support for affected communities. So, this summer we are asking supporters to celebrate drag culture in style – and we have produced a fabulous pack of resources to help them to do just that!

With a wealth of ideas for putting on a drag fundraiser, from brunches to livestreaming, make-up parties to pub quizzes, the pack will also take you through the steps needed to make your event pop. There are recipes, resources, and some great ideas from a few faces that we think you might recognise. This new campaign is receiving generous support from global drinks giant, Diageo and global beauty brand, M.A.C. Cosmetics.

As Charity Kase, who is supporting the initiative, says: “Whether you’re a seasoned queen, or you’re donning your first pair of eyelashes, Drag Raise is for everyone. So, get creative, have some fun and together we can create a better world for people living with HIV.”

Drag Raise fundraising packs can now be ordered from nat.org.uk/dragraise

And the Drag Raise launch is set to be celebrated with a party that is as glamorous as the occasion demands. Hosted by Multidimensional Cultural Icon Cheddar Gorgeous, the event, will include Drag Star Martini cocktails, DJs, and, of course, a galaxy of other drag queen and king performances. A luxury raffle and silent auction of fabulous prizes will also be on offer throughout the evening. All proceeds will go to National AIDS Trust.

Taking place on 18 July from 6.30 to 11pm, at Diageo’s exclusive Central London venue The Luminist, tickets are now on sale, for £75 from nat.org.uk/dragraise

Hannah Daws, Director of Fundraising at National AIDS Trust, adds: “We are so excited to launch our latest fundraising initiative, Drag Raise. Drag is a cultural phenomenon, but as an art form it has been such a powerful tool for self-expression and activism and its community has played a really important role in challenging HIV-related stigma over many years.

“We hope that Drag Raise will inspire people to raise vital funds for National AIDS Trust in a fun, fresh new way, as well as helping to raise awareness of the important work we do in working towards ending new cases of HIV, as well as stamping out HIV stigma for good.”