The Elizabeth Taylor Night of Compassion: A New Chapter in a Legacy of Advocacy

In September, The Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation hosted its inaugural Night of Compassion, a newly reimagined anchor event that carries forward Elizabeth Taylor’s enduring legacy of advocacy. Following the 5th anniversary of ETAF's The Elizabeth Taylor Ball to End AIDS, the team spent some time envisioning the next phase of the event. Believing that this is now the time to meet the moment and embody one of Elizabeth’s core values, compassion, they created the Night of Compassion. Though the event is a new iteration, the goals are the same: to create a space of kindness, compassion, and generosity while celebrating those who have made a difference in the fight against HIV/AIDS.

Held at the iconic Beverly Hills Hotel, the evening welcomed friends, partners, and supporters for a night filled with purpose. Guests arrived on a purple carpet (a tribute to Elizabeth’s unforgettable eyes) before gathering in the hotel’s garden for cocktails and conversation. Guests were able to get an exclusive look at items from the Elizabeth Taylor Archive, which contains highlights from Elizabeth’s personal life, film career, and philanthropy. On display were items inspired by Elizabeth’s iconic fragrance, Passion, including the original purple satin Nolan Miller gown she wore in the campaign for the fragrance.

Inside the event, guests enjoyed a seated dinner program hosted by Emmy Award-winning journalist Melvin Robert, whose warmth and charisma set the tone for a truly memorable evening. The program featured powerful remarks from ETAF Co-Trustees Barbara Berkowitz, Tim Mendelson, and Quinn Tivey, as well as a moving address from Daniel O’Day, Chairman and CEO of Gilead Sciences, Inc., the evening’s Presenting Sponsor.

The Elizabeth Taylor Commitment to End AIDS Award was presented to American businesswoman, fashion designer, art collector, activist, and New York Times best-selling author Tina Knowles in recognition of her decades-long advocacy and support for people affected by HIV and AIDS. In her acceptance speech, Ms. Knowles shared, “I have been a longtime admirer of the organization and its founder, Elizabeth Taylor. Tonight, I ask you all to stand for Elizabeth Taylor in reverence and appreciation of her commitment and impact on the world. I dedicate this award to her.” 

Additionally, Cookie Johnson was designated as ETAF’s 2025 Champion. On stage, Mrs. Johnson reflected on the deep personal connection she and her husband, Magic Johnson, share with this cause, saying, “This foundation has been around almost as long as my husband and I have been fighting against this disease. Elizabeth was so brave and stood up and fought against this disease. She stood by her friends, and she stood by the LGBTQ community.”

Throughout the evening, guests heard from Council of Justice Leaders Julie and Robert, two individuals whose personal stories bring powerful context to ETAF’s ongoing work in ending stigma and injustice for people living with HIV. Their presence was a poignant reminder of why Elizabeth began this work, and why it must continue. The night concluded with an unforgettable performance by Jordin Sparks, whose powerhouse vocals and infectious energy had the entire room on their feet in a fitting finale for a beautiful evening.

The Night of Compassion marked the beginning of a new chapter for The Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation, while still rooted in the principles of love, community, and unwavering advocacy. We are deeply grateful to Gilead Sciences, Inc. for their generous support as Presenting Sponsor, and to every guest, partner, and donor whose presence helped bring this vision to life. Together, we continue moving closer to an AIDS-free world, just as Elizabeth dreamed. To learn more about Elizabeth Taylor’s work as an HIV/AIDS activist and philanthropist, visit etaf.org.