PA Gotbaum at the 24th Annual AIDS Walk

On Sunday, Public Advocate Betsy Gotbaum joined elected officials, community leaders, and advocates at the opening ceremonies of the 24th Annual AIDS Walk New York. (Pictured above, from left-- [L] Manhattan Borough President Scott M. Stringer, Comptroller William C. Thompson, Jr., Public Advocate Gotbaum, and Assemblyman Denny Farrell; [R] Public Advocate Gotbaum and Representative Carolyn B. Maloney.)

As Commissioner of Parks & Recreation under Mayor Dinkins, Gotbaum successfully argued for a change in city policy allowing the Gay Men's Health Crisis (GMHC) and other organizations to use Central Park for fundraising events. Her action allowed more people than ever before to participate in the GMHC's AIDS Walk, resulting in a significant increase in proceeds for people with HIV/AIDS.