Aleksa Manila: Drag. Culture. Activism.

When clients, friends, and drag children tell Aleksa Manila of their HIV diagnosis, she feels sad but also inspired by their courage. As a counselor, she knows that treatments that can help people live long and healthy lives, but they will face obstacles and stigma. It is because of these challenges that activism and advocacy today remain vital, as Aleksa describes in moving personal accounts. AIDS activism shaped her drag persona, her career, and her ability to support others within API and queer communities.