Research

Research Motivations and Goals
Our Mission
The Miami AIDS Memorials Project is dedicated to preserving and commemorating Miami’s HIV/AIDS history. To that end, we are working to tag historic photographs from the personal collection of Dr. Shed Boren of the White Party, Miami’s iconic HIV/AIDS fundraiser, with information about people, dates, and event themes. The digitized materials featured here were made possible through a partnership with the Wolfsonian Public Humanities Lab (WPHL) at FIU, FIU Digital Collections, and the World AIDS Museum and Educational Center.

Why This Project Matters
The HIV/AIDS epidemic has had a significant impact on Miami, but the local history of the disease has been little documented and is rarely commemorated. By tagging historic photos from the White Party with descriptive information, you will help us to honor the work of activists who came together to raise money for local HIV/AIDS services. This will help us to build a more complete picture of the history of White Party, and to commemorate Vizcaya Museum and Gardens as a site for queer community, mobilization, and joy.

Impact
Your contributions will:

  • Preserve History: Ensure that the stories and memories of those who fought against HIV/AIDS are not forgotten.
  • Support Education: Provide valuable resources for researchers, educators, and the public.
  • Foster Community: Engage the community in remembering and honoring the efforts and lives of those involved.

How to Participate
Select a workflow to get started:

  • Identify People: Help us recognize and name individuals in the photographs.
  • Tag Year, Theme, and Context: Identify the year, theme, and any other relevant context of each photograph.

We appreciate your support and dedication to preserving this important part of Miami's history. Together, we can make a difference.


Learn More
For more information about the Miami AIDS Memorials Project and our collaborators, please visit our website or contact us at miamiaidsmemorials@gmail.com.