Drag Queen Fights Against HIV Stigma with Wigs, Makeup and Bops

Jade Elektra has long been an HIV Hero and advocate. The Toronto-based entertainer, also known as Alphonso King Jr., out of drag, has been an outspoken advocate and local hero alongside her husband, John Richard Allan, striving to eradicate the stigma associated with HIV. In 2019, Jade’s rendition of Nat King Cole’s “Unforgettable,” re-titled “Undetectable,” went viral and ignited a global conversation around the U=U (Undetectable = Untransmittable) movement.

In proving “the power of the wig and some makeup,” the talented singer-songwriter and DJ say their message tends to get a bit more attention when Jade is delivering it. In addition to using her platform to speak out about HIV and its stigma, Elektra works to combat the depression and isolation often felt in the HIV community through monthly events called MINGLE that she and Allan produce together. “A lot of HIV-positive people are depressed because they're isolated. So, I wanted to bring the community together.”

Jade continues to turn her gifts and experiences into sassy and joyful music that helps spread positive messages around HIV and affirms to the HIV community that they are loved.

Learn more about Jade Elektra's story and others in the newest episode of HIV Heroes.