Paul A. Aguilar is a fourth generation San Franciscan and a highly respected HIV/AIDS advocate. Deeply impacted by the onset of the AIDS epidemic in the early 1980s, and following his own HIV diagnosis in 1988, Paul has dedicated himself to fighting for the rights and wellbeing of those affected by HIV/AIDS. His extensive advocacy experience includes leadership roles within the Harvey Milk LGBTQ Democratic Club’s HIV Caucus, the HIV Advocacy Network, and the California statewide End-the-Epidemics coalition. Paul is also a founding co-author of the San Francisco Principles 2020, which addresses the needs of long-term HIV/AIDS survivors. In addition to his policy work, Paul works at the San Francisco AIDS Foundation (SFAF) as its Long-Term Survivor Community Liaison for Aging Services. He is a resident and board member at Marty’s Place Affordable Housing Corporation, a self-governing housing cooperative for people living with HIV/AIDS:(https://pluslifemedia.com/2023/12/06/martys-place-where-hope-lives/).
Paul’s expertise is further recognized by his role as co-chair of San Francisco’s “Getting to Zero” HIV & Aging sub-committee. Paul’s significant contributions have been honored with numerous distinctions, including “Lifetime Achievement Grand Marshal” at SF Pride 2023. His commitment to both policy change and community support makes him a vital force within the HIV/AIDS advocacy landscape.