Story perspectives

ACT UP Protests Military Spending, Demands Health Care Funding

3/23/2026

Summary

Story summary

On March 21, 2026, ACT UP held a demonstration in New York City against government spending on Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and military actions, while HIV care funding faces cuts.
The protest, marking ACT UP's 39th anniversary, featured activists lying on the pavement, reminiscent of past AIDS demonstrations.
Organizers criticized the Trump administration for prioritizing military spending over health care and honored recently deceased HIV activist Mark Milano.
ACT UP plans to engage voters in the upcoming midterm elections to advocate for health care and social programs.

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Story summary

On March 21, 2026, ACT UP held a demonstration in New York City against government spending on Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and military actions, while HIV care funding faces cuts.
The protest, marking ACT UP's 39th anniversary, featured activists lying on the pavement, reminiscent of past AIDS demonstrations.
Organizers criticized the Trump administration for prioritizing military spending over health care and honored recently deceased HIV activist Mark Milano.
ACT UP plans to engage voters in the upcoming midterm elections to advocate for health care and social programs.