Shanghai's first annual Red Ribbon Gala was held at the Grand Kempinski Hotel Shanghai on December 1, World AIDS Day, to promote the awareness of - and fight discrimination against - HIV/AIDS in China.

More than 120 guests from local consulates, businesses, media and the LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual and trans-sexual) community turned out to show their support.

A light and laser performance kicked off the evening, followed by a video presentation made by ShanghaiPRIDE, organizer of the annual gay festival in Shanghai, comprised of narratives of HIV/AIDS patients who shared the discrimination they face in their daily lives.

The Shanghai Hyberbolic Choir, which advocates acceptance through participating in charity, performed a capella.

Proceeds from the gala benefited AIDSLIFE Center, a local organization that provides care and counseling for HIV/AIDS patients. Zhou Yi, director of the center, said in his welcoming speech that discrimination against patients and even volunteers continues to exist in Shanghai.

The 50,000 yuan ($7,764) raised at the gala will be used to improve the life quality of severe AIDS patients, such as helping them purchase medication and basic daily necessities during their hospitalization.

Global Times

Guests show their support to HIV/AIDS at the Red Ribbon Gala. Photo: Courtesy of Grand Kempinski Hotel Shanghai