AIDS and the Movies

Regarding Judith Michaelson’s article on the making of Randy Shilts’ book “And the Band Played On” into a movie for HBO (March 21):

I am writing to express my heartfelt gratitude for the bravery of one and all involved in this production. As an African-American ex-dancer and actor and long-term survivor with AIDS, I hope that upon the viewing of this film, we Americans will keep in mind that many women and people of color are also engaged in a battle with this monumentally serious disease.

I hope, come fall, to still be here on the planet and be able to feel a part of this story. From where I sit, women and people of color are marginally reported about and in many situations are not wholly supported. May this film further help change the status quo.

This disease ain’t about politics, it’s still about death!

RONALD DENNIS

Los Angeles