Gotham Cheer at AIDS Walk New York 2025: Cheering with Purpose and Pride

Photo: Mathew McDermott

Every spring, Central Park becomes a powerful symbol of unity, remembrance, and hope as thousands gather for AIDS Walk New York. In 2025, Gotham Cheer was honored to return once again, filling the route with energy, support, and spirit as we cheered on walkers, volunteers, and GMHC staff throughout the day. For Gotham Cheer, this event is more than a performance—it’s a tradition rooted in community, activism, and love.

More Than Just a Walk

AIDS Walk New York is the world’s largest single-day HIV/AIDS fundraiser, and it plays an essential role in supporting GMHC and other HIV/AIDS service organizations across the tri-state area. The funds raised provide critical services for individuals living with or affected by HIV, including:

• Free testing and prevention resources

• Medical support and case management

• Social services and housing assistance

• Mental health counseling

• Advocacy and education programs

  
  

In 2024, the walk raised nearly $1.9 million, and in 2025, the community of walkers, teams, and donors united once again with the goal of surpassing that milestone. Each step taken represents a commitment to health equity, access, and dignity for all.

Photo: Mathew McDermott

Why Gotham Cheer Shows Up

As an organization dedicated to service and LGBTQIA+ visibility, Gotham Cheer understands the importance of honoring HIV/AIDS history while uplifting the present-day fight. Our team cheered, danced, and encouraged participants along the route, helping to boost morale and keep the energy high.

AIDS Walk Is About More Than Fundraising

While raising money is vital, AIDS Walk is also about visibility, unity, and healing. It is a reminder that the fight against HIV/AIDS is not over—and that we must continue to push forward with compassion and purpose.

AIDS Walk New York is about:

• Honoring those we’ve lost to HIV/AIDS

• Highlighting the ongoing need for prevention, treatment, and de-stigmatization

• Celebrating resilience, community, and hope

  
  

From the opening ceremony to the final steps across the finish line, the day was filled with emotion and empowerment. Seeing thousands of people—from longtime activists to first-time walkers—come together with one shared mission was truly inspiring.

Photo: Mathew McDermott

Looking Ahead

Gotham Cheer is proud to play a small part in such a powerful movement. We will continue to use our platform to raise awareness, support important causes, and bring joy to events that matter.

To everyone who walked, donated, volunteered, or cheered—you are the reason this work continues. Together, we are creating a future where compassion leads, stigma fades, and no one faces HIV/AIDS alone.

See you at AIDS Walk New York 2026—louder, prouder, and stronger than ever.