On December 1, 2025, the pop icon Madonna publicly condemned Donald Trump and his administration’s decision not to officially observe World AIDS Day — a move she described as “ridiculous, absurd, unthinkable.”
In a heartfelt post on Instagram, Madonna reminded her followers that for four decades, December 1 has served as a day of global remembrance — honoring those lost to HIV/AIDS and reflecting on lives touched by the epidemic.She emphasized that despite the advances in treatment and prevention, there is still no cure for AIDS, and people continue to die.
Madonna suggested the decision not to commemorate the day reflects a profound disregard for those who have suffered. She wrote pointedly, “I bet he’s never watched his best friend die of AIDS, held their hand, and watched the blood drain from their face as they took their last breath at the age of 23.” She added that she has lost many people she knew and loved to AIDS, and for her, their loss — and memory — still matters.
According to recent reports, the U.S. State Department has instructed its employees to refrain from using federal funds or public-facing channels — including media engagements and social media — to recognize World AIDS Day this year. The decision marks the first time since 1988 that the United States will not officially commemorate the day.
Despite government silence, Madonna declared she will continue to honor World AIDS Day personally — urging others to join her in remembrance.
