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“Fear, homophobia, racism and stigma ruled the day.” In 1982, Lease teamed with Denver Public Health representatives in announcing the formation of the Colorado AIDS Project (CAP) as a program of the GLCCC. Soon GRID was linked to specific populations referred to as the “4-H’s”-homosexuals, heroin users, Haitians and hemophiliacs, Lease recalls. The staff of The Center’s monthly newsletter, the Colorado Gay and Lesbian News, received a news release about unusual illnesses emerging in gay communities, including “gay cancer,” later briefly called Gay-Related Immunodeficiency Disorder, or GRID. Thirty-six years ago, in 1981, Carol Lease was the executive director of the Gay and Lesbian Community Center of Colorado (GLCCC). Very few Coloradans-or anyone, for that matter-has played a leadership role in HIV/AIDS services and advocacy longer than Carol Lease. Short biographical profiles of the Coloradans honored today follows. The purpose of the ceremony is to “recognize individuals who have demonstrated leadership, courage, tenacity and compassion in response to the AIDS epidemic and the spread of HIV in Colorado.” Friends of the Grove plans to periodically identify and recognize individuals and groups for their contributions to the creation, development and ongoing work to sustain a community of caring for those with HIV and AIDS. Bob Bongiovanni, Barb Cardell, Michael Dorosh, Hazel Ann Harris and Carol Lease were recognized for their groundbreaking leadership as advocates, service providers and champions for people affected by HIV/AIDS and those who care for them. The event was held in conjunction with International AIDS Candlelight Memorial Day. On Sunday, May 21, 2017, Friends of The Grove recognized five Coloradans who have devoted their lives and careers to the fight against HIV/AIDS. Colorado AIDS Memorial 2017 Recognition Ceremony by Phil Nash