New Oakland Headquarters for Global Forum

The Global Forum on MSM HIV (MSMGF) -- a network of civil society groups, advocates, and AIDS organizations worldwide working with men who have sex with men -- will hold an open house on March 1 to celebrate its move to a new headquarters. "The MSMGF is the only advocacy organization focused specifically on the global HIV epidemic among [MSM]," its executive officer, clinical psychologist George Ayala, said in a statement. "Oakland's sustained response to a devastating epidemic among MSM of color has given local service providers a depth of experience that is extremely valuable; we look forward to working with our local colleagues and partners abroad to ensure MSM everywhere have the services they need." The group's $1.7 million budget comes mostly "in the form of grants from foundations and governments," according to Jack Beck, communications associate, though it receives no funds from the US government. Rep. Barbara Lee (D-Calif.) is expected to attend the celebration, which begins at 1:30 p.m. at 436 14th St. in Oakland.

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