Photo Credit: Photo Courtesy of Better Brothers LA
Dr. Keith Green, was honored with the Bayard Rustin Advocacy Award at the 12th Annual Truth Awards, held this past weekend at the Beverly Hilton Hotel.
Presented with ViiV Healthcare as the evening’s sponsor, the award recognized Dr. Green’s decades-long commitment to advancing HIV prevention, expanding access to treatment, and supporting Black LGBTQ+ communities in Chicago.
Hosted annually by the Better Brothers Los Angeles, the Truth Awards celebrate individuals who have made significant contributions to uplifting and empowering the Black LGBTQ+ community.
Dr. Green was honored alongside journalist Don Lemon and Grammy Award-winning songwriter Durand Bernarr.
Accepting the honor, Dr. Green stated that the recognition reflects a broader collective effort.
“Being recognized at the Truth Awards is deeply meaningful, but this honor truly belongs to the community,” he said. “Every day, we are working to ensure that Black gay, bisexual, and same gender loving men impacted by HIV have access to the education, prevention tools, treatment, and support they deserve. Progress happens when we center the voices of those most affected and build strong partnerships like my work with ViiV Healthcare that allows us to meet people where they are. Together, we can continue breaking down barriers and move closer to ending the HIV epidemic.”
His recognition comes at a critical moment. In Chicago, Black residents represent approximately 28% of the population but account for nearly half of new HIV diagnoses annually, underscoring persistent disparities in access to care and health outcomes.
Through his leadership at the Chicago Black Gay Men’s Caucus, Dr. Green has developed programs grounded in trust, lived experience, and direct community engagement. His work continues to address not only HIV prevention and treatment, but also the intersection of HIV and mental health.
Randevyn Piérre, Head of U.S. External Affairs at ViiV Healthcare, reinforced the importance of sustained collaboration and innovation in addressing the epidemic.
“We are proud to have once again been the presenting sponsor of the Truth Awards and stand alongside the Black LGBTQ+ community as we work to shape a brighter future for us all,” Piérre said. “At ViiV Healthcare, we believe in the power of partnership, innovation, and community impact to end the HIV epidemic.
Whether that be through innovative long-acting medicines that are changing the way HIV is treated and prevented, or through engaging committed community partners like Dr. Keith Green and allies, we won’t stop in our ambition to reach an HIV-free future.”
Organizers say the recognition highlights both Dr. Green’s enduring leadership and the continued urgency of addressing HIV disparities, particularly within marginalized communities.
