'Keep the Promise' Rally in Downtown Brooklyn . . . Rev. Al Leads March Over Brooklyn Bridge

A stage was set up in Cadman Plaza Park. Photo: MK Metz

The AIDS Healthcare Foundation threw a big "Keep the Promise on AIDs" concert/ rally in Cadman Plaza Park on Saturday, with a full lineup of entertainment, speeches by AIDs advocates and pols, including the Rev. Al Sharpton, and a march over the Brooklyn Bridge.

The advocates called for funding to fight AIDs in New York City, which has been hit with budget cuts for HIV testing.

Steve Levin. Photo: MK Metz

Council Member Stephen Levin said that more people in NYC are getting their HIV diagnosed late, leading to an increased likelihood of dying from AIDs. State Senator Velmanette Montgomery spoke in favor of the "No Condoms As Evidence" bill, which would prohibit police for arresting people for carrying condoms. (Prosecutors have been claiming this shows intent to commit prostitution.)

'Stroke 'Em Condom Style'

Cassidy. Photo MK Metz

Rapper Cassidy ("I'm A Hustla") had the crowd dancing with "Stroke 'Em Condom Style." (A memorable 'Gangnam Style' take off: "Stroke, stroke, stroke, stroke, stroke, Stroke 'em condom style.")

Other entertainment included Grammy Award-winners Bridget Kelly and Miri Ben-Ari, Sway Calloway, DJ Lina, and The Rude Mechanical Orchestra.

Malina Fisher, Sway Calloway, Reverend Al Sharpton, and Michael Weinstein (AIDS Healthcare Foundation) Photo: MK Metz

Marching up the steps of the Brooklyn Bridge. Photo: MK Metz

The Rude Mechanical Orchestra. Photo: MK Metz

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