New York State Department of Health Announces Launch of “Unfiltered” Campaign to Reduce Stigma and Connect Black and Brown Communities With HIV Prevention Resources

"Unfiltered" Series to Release New Episodes Every Two Weeks

Episodes Highlight Each Influencer's Unique Journey with Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP)

First Episode Features Artist and Activist, Yves Mathieu East

ALBANY, NY (December 2, 2025) – The New York State Department of Health, AIDS Institute today announced the launch of "Unfiltered," a new docuseries designed to raise awareness about pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV prevention for Black and Brown New Yorkers. The series launched across social media platforms and on the campaign's official website, UnfilteredNY.org.

"Unfiltered" looks into the daily lives of eight influencers, artists and advocates from across New York state. The series aims to normalize conversations around PrEP and empower individuals to take control of their sexual health. The campaign directly addresses the disproportionate impact of HIV on communities of color and the need for culturally relevant prevention strategies.

"The 'Unfiltered' series centers around honest conversations about HIV prevention in communities of color and the lived experiences of real people who are bravely sharing their personal stories about PrEP for HIV prevention, sexual health and wellness," State Health Commissioner Dr. James McDonald said. "The campaign aims to foster open dialogue about HIV prevention resources and build community connections focused on awareness and equitable access to preventive health care, bringing us one step closer to ending the epidemic across all communities."

According to the New York State HIV Surveillance Report, in 2024, people of color made up nearly 8 in 10 of all people newly diagnosed with HIV in New York, despite only making up 1 in 3 of all New Yorkers. While PrEP is 99 percent effective at preventing HIV, communities of color have historically been underrepresented in the usage of PrEP for HIV prevention. Additionally, while Black and Latina women make up 86 percent of women newly diagnosed with HIV in New York State, they make up only 32 percent of all women prescribed PrEP. Closing the gaps in PrEP access and care reduces the risk of transmission in communities of color.

New York State Department of Health AIDS Institute Director Joseph Kerwin said, "This campaign represents a vital step forward in our mission to end the HIV epidemic. By amplifying authentic voices and centering the lived experiences of Black and Brown New Yorkers, we can break down the barriers of stigma and misinformation that too often prevent people from accessing life-saving tools like PrEP. Unfiltered is more than an awareness campaign. It's a movement to foster open dialogue and ensure health equity for all."

The "Unfiltered" series will release new episodes every two weeks, with each installment showcasing a different influencer's unique journey. By pairing digital storytelling with local partnerships, the campaign works to normalize conversations around PrEP and HIV prevention in communities of color, challenge stigma with truth, visibility and representation, increase awareness of the benefits of PrEP for HIV prevention and inspire communities of color to access HIV prevention services.

The first episode features artist and activist, Yves Mathieu East.

Yves is a Bushwick-based artist and activist, whose work is rooted in building community and advocating for Black and queer youth. Yves uses his platform to champion the power of connection as a form of self-care. He is a passionate volunteer who believes in creating spaces where everyone feels seen and supported.

Yves Mathieu East said, "In the simplest of terms, PrEP is HIV prevention. I feel liberation in my sexuality. Being on PrEP is an accent to that liberation."

Upcoming episodes include the following:

  • Jade Verette (Chef & Podcaster)
    Instagram: @jadeofalljades
  • Leo Herrera (Writer, Artist & Activist)
    Instagram:@herreraimages
  • Mila Jam (Pop Artist & Activist)
    Instagram: @themilajam
  • Boy Radio (Musician, Artist & Actor)
    Instagram: @boy.radio
  • Sydnee Washington (Comedian)
    Instagram: @justsydbw
  • Gabriel Ocasio-Cortez (Community Worker, Accessibility Activist & Artist)
    Instagram: @gabrielocasiocortez
    TikTok: @gabrielocasiocortez
  • Raquel Willis (Author & Activist)
    Instagram: @raquel_willis

Community partners, health care providers, equity and social justice initiatives, HIV advocacy organizations, local and social media influencers, community leaders and media are invited to join the campaign by resharing content, hosting conversations and distributing materials in clinics, campuses, public spaces and online.

To learn more, visit UnfilteredNY.org, search for the hashtag #UnfilteredNY and follow the campaign on the following social media platforms:

Instagram: @NYSDOH

Facebook: @NYSDOH

X: @healthnygov

LinkedIn: @NYSDOH

YouTube: @NYSDOH

"Unfiltered" is supported by New York state and aligns with the state's ongoing commitment to ending the HIV epidemic through equity, access and innovation.

Learn more about pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) for HIV prevention here.

About the New York State Department of Health, AIDS Institute
The AIDS Institute, established in 1983, leads New York State's response to the HIV/AIDS epidemic. It is dedicated to promoting prevention, ensuring access to high-quality care and addressing health disparities. Through innovative programs, community partnerships and a commitment to health equity, the AIDS Institute works to end the epidemic and improve the lives of all New Yorkers affected by HIV. Learn more at AIDS Institute.