For Immediate Release: 
November 24, 2025

[email protected] 

Congresswoman Maxine Waters  
Recognized At Grand Opening of  
STORIES: The AIDS Monument  

“It is my hope that STORIES: The AIDS Monument will inspire us all to honor those who have died and continue the fight to save lives. We must never give up until we put an end to the HIV/AIDS pandemic once and for all.” 

Credit: Katina Parker.  IG: @katinaNparker

Washington, D.C. – On November 16, 2025, Congresswoman Maxine Waters (CA-43), Ranking Member of the Committee on Financial Services, attended the grand opening of STORIES: The AIDS Monument in West Hollywood.  
 
The Congresswoman released the following statement:  
 
“I commend the City of West Hollywood, the City Council, the Foundation for the AIDS Monument, and all those who joined together to make STORIES: The AIDS Monument a reality. This beautiful rendering of the AIDS epidemic is a powerful tribute to all who confronted the disease. The tall, lighted pillars in formation along San Vicente Boulevard call to mind the candlelight vigils, marches, and organizing that turned grief into action and built a strong sense of community. Seeing the monument lit at night, at what was once an epicenter of the epidemic, reminds me of the advocates, caregivers, and public health leaders who refused to give up on ending HIV and AIDS. 
 
“I am especially grateful to be recognized by the founder of the Black AIDS Institute, and former board member of the Foundation for the AIDS Monument, Phill Wilson, who acknowledged me in his remarks for my ongoing HIV/AIDS policy advocacy. It is my hope that STORIES: The AIDS Monument will inspire us all to honor those who have died and continue the fight to save lives. We must never give up until we put an end to the HIV/AIDS pandemic once and for all.”  

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