The Time Is Now: Raheem DeVaughn, Purpose, and the Push to End HIV in Black Communities

By LaDonna Raeh

I had the privilege of standing in a room full of power, purpose, and unapologetic truth at the Hilton Chicago—specifically, the Joliet Room on the third floor, where the air was charged with energy and intention.

It was all happening at “The Time Is Now: Let’s End HIV in Our Communities,” a press briefing and conversation focused on HIV prevention, with a much-needed spotlight on Black women’s health. And let me be clear—this wasn’t your average media event. This was a movement, and I was honored to be in it, with my co-host Atiba by my side and a mic in my hand.

But the real showstopper?

The one and only Raheem DeVaughn—R&B royalty and a man whose voice not only moves hearts but now, more than ever, is moving change.

💡 Why We Were There: The Urgency Behind the Conversation

The statistics hit like a gut punch:

• Black women make up just 13% of women in the U.S., but accounted for over 50% of new HIV diagnoses among women in 2022.
• Only 8% of PrEP users were women, even though women represented 19% of new HIV cases.
• PrEP—a powerful HIV prevention tool—has been around since 2012. Still, only 1 in 3 people who could benefit from it are getting access.

Now ask yourself—why?

We know the answer. Stigma. Silence. Lack of access. And yes, a healthcare system that doesn’t always prioritize us.

That’s where Gilead Sciences comes in. They’re not just tossing facts around—they’re pushing for real change. Their work focuses on raising awareness, breaking the silence, and encouraging judgment-free conversations between patients and providers. Because getting tested, talking prevention, and accessing care should be as normal as a checkup—not a whispered taboo.

🎶 Raheem DeVaughn: The Soundtrack to Awareness

Raheem DeVaughn and LaDonna Raeh

Raheem DeVaughn didn’t just show up—he showed out.

But not with a performance. With presence. With passion. With purpose.

This brother is known for his soulful catalog and smooth voice, but he’s also long been a voice for social justice. Whether he’s singing about love or liberation, Raheem understands the power of his platform. And on this day, he used it to amplify the truth:

“It’s time we protect our sisters. It’s time we normalize talking about HIV, prevention, and health—like we talk about music, fashion, or sports.”

Whew. Say that again.

💬 Real Talk, Real Action

What made this event different was that it wasn’t just about awareness—it was about action. It wasn’t just a press conference—it was a call to community.

We saw policy leaders, public health experts, advocates, and media voices all coming together. We talked about what’s missing, what’s broken, and what needs to be rebuilt—with equity and love at the center.

This isn’t just a moment. It’s a movement.

🗣️ What You Can Do (Right Now)

• Get tested.
• Ask about PrEP.
• Talk to your doctor—even if it feels awkward.
• Share the stats. Speak the truth.
• Show up for Black women and femmes.

Because prevention is power, and silence has never saved a life.

So I’ll say it again, louder this time: The Time Is Now.

And shoutout to Raheem DeVaughn for using his voice in a way that sings beyond the stage. Because when artists step into activism? That’s when the real remix happens.

Stay tuned, stay woke, and stay loud.

With love (and purpose),

LaDonna Raeh 💋🎙️