Elton John and Brandi Carlile launch campaign to fight Trump’s HIV/AIDS funding cuts

Elton John and Brandi Carlile have joined forces to address reductions in HIV/AIDS funding under the Trump administration. On April 16, 2025, they announced the "Who Believes In Angels?" campaign in partnership between the Elton John AIDS Foundation and Carlile’s Looking Out Foundation.

The initiative aims to raise US$1 million to offset cuts made to USAID’s HIV programmes, which have left some clinics at risk of suspension. Both artists, fresh from releasing their collaborative album Who Believes In Angels? earlier in the month, are extending their work from studio to frontline support.

Without rapid action, existing prevention and treatment services could face further disruption.

---

U.S. aid cuts have created gaps in HIV prevention and care

Since January 2017, an executive order reduced funding for the United States Agency for International Development’s HIV/AIDS programmes, removing a key source of support for global health efforts. These cuts affected co‑funded partnerships the leading to suspended testing services and delayed antiretroviral shipments in several regions.

Public health experts warn that without alternative funding, years of progress in reducing new infections and HIV‑related deaths could be reversed. The impact spans sub‑Saharan Africa, parts of Asia, and underserved U.S. communities where local groups depend on USAID support for prevention and care.

Also Read: “Living without you is impossible”: Liam Payne’s sister pays heartbreaking tribute 6 months after his death

---

Elton John and Brandi Carlile launched a campaign to raise one million dollars

"Who Believes In Angels?" The campaign officially started with a joint statement from both musicians, pledging to raise US$1 million for HIV services. The campaign takes its name from their collaborative album of the same title, which debuted on April 4, 2025. Looking Out Foundation is committed to matching donations up to US$100,000 to amplify each gift’s impact.

Elton John said,

“No one should suffer from stigma, fear or lack of access to treatment anymore – everyone deserves the right to a healthy life”.

Brandi Carlile added,

“It was a lifelong dream come true for me to come together with my hero and friend Elton John … now, we’re excited to announce that our foundations are also partnering to make our music mean even more”.

---

Matched donations will support testing, treatment, and outreach programmes

Donations to this campaign will flow into the Rocket Response Fund and Carlile’s Looking Out Foundation to sustain vital services. Funds will help reopen clinics halted by funding cuts, secure antiretroviral therapy supplies, and keep HIV testing sites operational.

The campaign also plans to support community outreach and education to prevent new infections and combat stigma.

Brandi Carlile emphasised that

“our mission is more important than ever – we refuse to leave anyone behind”

She highlighted the urgent need for continued prevention tools such as PrEP.

Training for local health workers will also be funded to help manage increased patient loads and avoid service backlogs.

Also Read: LadyLand 2025 lineup revealed: Cardi B and FKA Twigs to headline the fest during Pride Weekend in Brooklyn

---

The partnership between Elton John and Brandi Carlile arrives at a pivotal moment for HIV/AIDS care, as recent policy shifts threaten to undo decades of progress. By combining their public profiles, music revenue, and foundation networks, the "Who Believes In Angels?" campaign seeks to fill emerging gaps in both global and U.S. HIV programmes.

Since its founding in 1992, the organisation (EJAF) has raised over US$500 million and has extended HIV-related initiatives to over 102 countries, highlighting the impact of private contributions alongside public aid. Donations can be made via each foundation’s website, with every dollar matched up to US$100,000 to bolster testing, treatment, and prevention services where they are needed most. Continued support aims to ensure that no one is left without care or support.

---

Also Read: Organizers announce postponement of Fyre Festival 2, ticket holders offered refunds