LaShara Lashawn

Out of so much pain, turmoil, depression and frustration something beautiful has been birthed. Another rose has grown through the concrete. David Michael, bay area fashion influencer, stylist and photographer has had his time spent in a space of darkness and uncertainty.  Being bi racial and apart of the LBGTQ community he has been face to face with opposition’s but it was love and support from his father, friends and family that helped him conquer his biggest obstacle yet. David Michael had been diagnosed with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) which is the virus that can lead to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, or AIDS, if not treated. Realizing that he was done being sad and he had so much to live for he wanted to share his story with others but how?

Photography and fashion are mediums he uses to express himself artistically yet that wasn’t personal enough. Talking about HIV/AIDs is very hush “there was no one that I knew that had HIV,” stated David Michael, it is Taboo to discuss. David Michael wanted to get people together that loved and supported him and even those whom he didn’t know to share and spread awareness. A beautiful night had been birthed within him calling it Taboo, HIV/AIDs awarness gala. The Bay area was being summoned to get it’s finest pieces together, pull out the heels and ties while not forgetting to bring an open heart and mind. This was going to be a night to remember all in efforts to bring awareness, raise money and create a safe place for the conversation around HIV/AIDS.

The red carpet had been rolled out, early arrival was suggested and guest showed up right on time, Saturday May 31, 2019. Greeted by a warm smile they were checked in, the list of RSVPs was pages long so without disappointment the space filled up fast. Smooth acoustic music flowed through the venue, which was provided by a live musician and dj. David Michael crossed every T and dotted every I in preperation for his very first gala.  First among the other vendors was David Michael’s own table filled with a variety of David Michael T-shirts in different colors, three raffles, HIV/AIDs walk sign up that grew as the night progressed and even condoms!! These were not just regular condoms but David Michael customized condoms. Free on site testing was provided as well as information on HIV /AIDs for guest to take home with them.

Everyone looked amazing, people greeted each other with hugs and kisses. Taking full advantage of the open bar with two signature drinks curated by none other than David Michael himself, naming them DM Popping and Taboo. With such a night so elegant it must be captured, a photo booth was available along with an official photographer for the night capturing all the priceless moments. Guest lined up to take photos with friends using the crazy props. High tables with a bunch of red roses and tea lights were available for guest to enjoy their drinks, light refreshments and deserts. Along the walls were pictures taken by David Michael, guest stood in awe at his work. David Michael dressed in all black with two red flowers as accessories to his suit jacket made his way out to greet guest. He was greeted with warm hugs and big smiles, friends and family had come from all over to support the cause.

The venue provided enough space for people to walk around, mingle with others and even talk with the other vendors about their products. A few of the vendors donated free merchandise for the event. The gala MC Stephanie wearing all white and crowned with poise beamed with excitement. With many people walking in to the event she was able to capture the attention of the guest, introducing the event and performers. Art through spoken word and song by the Bay areas own recording artist Netta Brielle and other close friends where all beyond moving. A poem recited from poet Melvin Jones Called Heart Beats nearly brought  listeners to tears as it described the tough symptoms and experiences of someone with HIV/AIDs. It was in this moment where everyone was given an up close and personal view from the eyes of someone living with this virus. The room was silent, yet open to receive and warm. The room erupted in a loud applause at the conclusion of the poem. Nothing was more fitting for the event.

An intermission followed allowing people to indulge in the free flowing drinks, refreshments and opportunities to participate in the raffles, check out the cool patches provided by Grandeur Division, get some flowers to hand to another beautiful women in partnership with Kaliah’s Heart a non profit started by Kadija Phillips the sister of a Richmond Police Officer who was killed in the line of duty, or grab a free hoodie from Prep Support. The ambiance was unmatched, filled with so much love, culture and creativity. This was exactly what David Michael had envisioned in physical form. The illustrious MC called the attention to the guest encouraging a round of applause for the previous preformers then called for the man of the hour, David Michael to grace the stage.

Thanks and gratitude where poured onto those who assisted with bringing the event together before sharing about the gala and why he named it Taboo. For it is very taboo in the black and LGBTQ community to discuss certain things especially HIV/AIDs, in the most heart felt way thanked his dad who was over come with emotion as David Michael described how his father had been by his side and supported him through everything as well as his diagnosis. Guest applauded in support and solidarity, following the emotional thanks David Michael shared some great attributes about his father and even sharing about him making the delicious potato salad for the event, which broke up the slight sadness with a few laughs.  David Michael spoke with true strength, power, and sureness though he may have been nervous it went undetected as he began to share about his journey and experiences.

It was on 8/16/2018 that David Michael found out that he was HIV positive; he recants the various emotions that he felt, being depressed, shocked and even suicidal. He wondered how he could share his truth with others; he thought through photography but didn’t want to spring such a serious matter on people in that way. Through encouragement and support from loved ones he took some time to himself, made some life changes and created Taboo. People listened closely, postures changed as people leaned in, taking in and processing what was being shared. David Michael put together a video capturing important aspects of his life such as his family, creative works and friends. David Michael executed this event with the most class and precision.  Shedding light on a topic that doesn’t get as much attention as it needs.

HIV/AID is not the death sentence it once was, there is new medicine and technology that makes the virus more treatable. Having these conversations, encouraging people to share their stories, and spreading awareness are all apart of the healing process for many who are affected directly and indirectly. The Taboo gala was like one big family affair filled with love and support. If there was someone who had never interacted with anyone with HIV/AIDs, known anything about the virus itself, been tested, or even knew David Michael they had been given an amazingly warm experience. A guest commented on the event commending the set up and the other guest who were dressed to impress, stating, “we in the bay area don’t always get a chance to get dressed up and also be able to support a good cause.” David Michael stated that he will be hosting other events, as well as another gala and is looking to start a non-profit of his own. He recognizes that this is bigger then himself, for HIV/AIDs is not something that you will die from, more so something you will die with. The Taboo gala was all of elegance, fun, and love as well as informative. The event raised well over $3,000.00 towards HIV/AIDs research.

David Michael shared something so personal, which has left an impression that will last a lifetime for many.

Question and Answers with David Michael

1. What were some of your concerns when planning for the event?

Looking for the right venue can be a challenge. I wanted to make sure the Gala had the right ambiance. It was important to me that guest felt ma magical feeling that some of us don’t have the opportunity to enjoy. Seeing so many beautiful people in all colors dress up nice always brings me joy.

2. What emotions did you feel when you decided to share your status?

Disclosing personal information isn’t easy. I definitely felt the need to share my status as a way to express my emotions. The Gala was an event full of art, music, poetry, and most importantly… with love. I knew that people would embrace me and allow me to speak my truth. We all experience hardships and I wanted people to know my decision to share my status was to encourage others to live freely from the pain we keep inside.

3. What is something you wanted people to leave with from the gala?

I hope people left feeling reborn, free, and proud. Every ticket sale was a contribution to the SF AIDS Walk. Being part of something bigger than our own struggles makes people feel good. It’s a lonely world sometimes and I definitely felt the love in the room.

4. What is your advice to someone who just found out that they are positive for HIV/AIDs?

My advice would be to learn to love you and understand that life will continue. We are not alone and there is plenary of wonderful things to be appreciative for. It’s not a death sentence like we once knew it to be. Therapy and self expression helped me cope with living with the fact, but finding happiness I had to do on my own. My HIV status in undetectable, meaning it is untranslatable. Medicine has advanced and people are becoming more accepting and open to talk about HIV. It affects everyone in one-way or another. It is not a disease associated with sexuality or race. It’s a human struggle and everyone should open their eyes and ears. Every experience is different and I can only speak for myself, never the less it is my truth I speak and that is powerful.

To keep up with David Michael:

Instagram & Twitter: DavidMichaelofficial and Davidmichealofficial.com