Elton John Sets Up Frankie Knuckles Charity Fund
By Lisa White in Arts & Entertainment on Apr 21, 2014 9:30PM
After the tragic and sudden death of House music pioneer Frankie Knuckles last month, the Elton John AIDS Foundation announced they are creating the Frankie Knuckles Fund to help charities working with men at high risk of HIV in Africa, as well as African communities in the U.K. and the U.S.
Founder Sir Elton John had these kind words to say about Knuckles:
"Frankie was such a lovely man and a great talent and his legacy provides a powerful voice to reach out to people, particularly men of colour, about their essential role in helping to create an AIDS-free future."
According to the Elton John Aids Foundation, black men remain at a very high risk of HIV and are 40 percent more likely than white males to be diagnosed with HIV at a later stage. Those who are diagnosed late are 10 times more likely to die of AIDS. Executive Director Anne Aslett stated "It is our goal, in Frankie's name, to make sure they are aware of the risks of HIV and so access information, testing and treatment to protect themselves and others."
Meanwhile Knuckles will be honored tonight at Progressive Baptist Church. His family asks that in lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the American Diabetes Association or the Gay Men Health Crisis of NYC.