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Community Reception

Kissing Doesn’t Kill

The Story Behind an Iconic AIDS Activism Poster

Friday, August 7, 2026

6:00 PM–8:00 PM

Caracole
4138 Hamilton Avenue
Cincinnati, OH 45223

This event has passed.

Thank you to everyone who joined us for this special evening with the Ohio Lesbian Archives.

Interested in learning more about Gran Fury and Kissing Doesn’t Kill? Learn more on the Ohio Lesbian Archives website.

Where art and activism meet.

The Ohio Lesbian Archives, in partnership with Caracole, invites you to an evening exploring the history behind one of the most recognizable images of AIDS activism.

Created by the artist collective Gran Fury during the height of the AIDS crisis, Kissing Doesn’t Kill challenged stigma, demanded attention and demonstrated the power of art to inspire change.

Through historical context, archival images and conversation, we’ll reflect on the activists who transformed grief into action and examine how their work continues to shape the fight against HIV today.

Whether you’re familiar with Gran Fury or discovering this history for the first time, this program offers an opportunity to connect the past with the ongoing work of advocacy, education and equity.

Friday, August 7
6:00 PM–8:00 PM
Caracole
4138 Hamilton Avenue
Cincinnati, OH 45223

A reception with light refreshments will begin at 6:00 PM, followed by the program at 6:30 PM.

Questions? Please reach out to Avery Plummer, Director of Development & Community Engagement, Ohio Lesbian Archives at [email protected].

We’re at capacity!

Thank you for the incredible response to Kissing Doesn’t Kill: The Story Behind an Iconic AIDS Activism Poster. We’ve reached our seating capacity, and registration is now closed.

We’re looking forward to gathering with everyone who reserved a spot on August 7!

Caracole is committed to providing universal access to all of our events. The location is fully accessible to people with mobility and vision impairments. Please contact Caracole at [email protected] to request other disability or language accommodations. Advance notice is necessary to arrange for some accessibility needs.

Presented in Partnership By

A purple lambda symbol with a rainbow stripe and the words Ohio Lesbian Archives in purple text, all enclosed in a black-outlined circle on a white background, evokes the powerful message that kissing doesn't kill—celebrating pride and visibility.
Caracole logo with a blue shell graphic and text that reads: Caracole, positively changing lives in the fight against HIV/AIDS—because Kissing Doesn't Kill.
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