Luna Luis Ortiz

A longtime survivor of HIV, Luna Luis Ortiz was born in New York City. In 1988, he began his journey as an HIV awareness spokesperson for youth living with HIV, where he attended Harvey Milk High School. Over the years, Ortiz dedicated his life to HIV prevention and AIDS awareness for people worldwide by appearing on syndicated television specials and publications. As a public speaker, he has been invited to share his life and art at prestigious  Universities and venues. In the late 1980s, Ortiz became a part of the NYC ballroom voguing scene, receiving many accolades for his contributions and leadership in the community.  

As an artist, Ortiz has been included in exhibitions at galleries from NYC to DC as well as galleries worldwide. He is in the permanent collection at Leslie-Lohman Museum of Art, and the Museum of the NYC. In 2007, Ortiz continued his dedication to HIV prevention and youth services at Gay Men's Health Crisis (GMHC). He works tirelessly on the agency’s social marketing campaigns, such as the GLAAD award-winning ‘I Love My Boo’ campaign.  He is also responsible for the planning committee of House and Ball members for the annual well-known Latex Ball. Today, Ortiz continues to inspire and empower youth of color worldwide with his story of survival living with HIV for over 37 years. His passions as a father of the House of Khan allow him to continue to guide and support young people from the LGBT experience with love, compassion, and care.