An Evening of Culture and Celebration

Join SafeLink Alberta on November 21st from 6:00 pm-10:00 pm at Spanky's Saloon for an event supporting World AIDS Day. This event is a night to honour the resiliency of those individuals most impacted by HIV and to remember those we lost.

It is also to celebrate the progress of HIV prevention and treatment and reflect on the global initiative to end HIV stigma and the work being done towards a day when HIV is no longer a public health threat.

We sincerely thank our sponsor, for their generous support.

• Multi-cultural cusine, a light meal from African, Caribbean, and Black and Indigenous communities.
• An evening of incredible talent from the 2SLGBTQIA+ community, African, Caribbean, and Black communities, Indigenous communities.
• An enticing silent auction.
• 50/50 tickets.
• A raffle for Spanky's Saloon Swag.
  

• Hosted by Calgary's beloved DIon Belanger who has decades of event planning, volunteering and raising funds for AIDS and HIV support services. Get ready to be entertained by Dion with one of his iconic country drag performances as well.
• Experience the vibrant energy of Nigerian Afrobeats artist Cris Kester as he inspires us with uplifting hits like "Wonderland" and "Good Mood."
• Be moved by Two-Spirit trailblazer Argintina Hailey-Lawrence, the founder of Morley Two-Spirit Pride, who will amplify Two-Spirit voices and shine a light on Indigenous and 2SLGBTQ+ communities.
• Immerse yourself in the evocative storytelling of acclaimed musician Trent Agecoutay, whose powerful music reflects Indigenous resilience.
• Feel the soulful sounds of Ole Man Kidd as he blends personal tales with timeless melodies on his steel guitar.
• Prepare to be dazzled by the show-stopping performance of Misty Meadows, a two-time Entertainer of the Year and former Empress of the Mother Court of Canada, who will leave you in awe with her classic drag.
• Be inspired by the spoken words of Mark Randall a long time employee of SafeLink Alberta and his journey of living with HIV, his passion to educate everyone about testing for HIV, prevention and treatment.

Join us for this inspiring evening—reserve your tickets now and be part of a celebration of hope and community.

• Spanky's Saloon is located at 219 10 Ave SW.
• Where is parking? There is plenty of street parking nearby, including an Indigo Parkade at 224 10 Ave SW and a lot right next door at 235 10 Ave SW.
• Taking transit? The venue is just a 10-minute stroll from both the Centre Street and 1st Street C-Train stations. You can plan your trip here.
• Spanky's Saloon is wheelchair accessible
• You can access an ATM inside the bar.

Email: [email protected]

World AIDS Day, observed on December 1, is a time for communities and individuals to unite in honouring the over 32 million people worldwide who have died from AIDS-related illnesses. It's a day to share experiences, remember those lost, and strengthen the collective fight against HIV.

In Canada, HIV continues to have a significant impact, with approximately 62,790 people living with the virus. However, an estimated 16,690 Canadians remain undiagnosed, creating a hidden epidemic. Key populations most affected include Indigenous peoples, African, Caribbean, and Black (ACB) communities, people who use substances, cis and trans gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men, sex workers, and people from endemic countries.

SafeLink Alberta is a non-profit organization that has been serving and advocating for priority populations in Calgary and southern Alberta since 1983. Our mission is to reduce the harms associated with sexual activity and substance use through education and non-judgmental services, with a strong focus on underserved communities affected by HIV, hepatitis C, and other sexually transmitted and blood-borne infections (STBBI).
We offer comprehensive HIV services, including system navigation and a peer navigation program that connects people living with HIV to peer support groups and one-on-one guidance.
We also provide emotional support, help with accessing healthcare, and referrals to specialized services. In addition, our team educates clients on HIV prevention, safer sex practices, and treatment options, ensuring they have the tools to maintain their health.

Event Venue

Spanky's Saloon, 219 10 Avenue Southwest, Calgary, Canada