Red Hot is a not-for-profit, 501(c) 3 organization whose mission is to promote diversity through pop culture, advocating for the equal access to health care. Red Hot has been raising awareness and money around the AIDS crisis and related health issues with a focus on LGBTQ rights since 1990. Started by Leigh Blake and John Carlin with the Cole Porter tribute album Red Hot + Blue, which raised millions of dollars, helped reduce the stigma around AIDS at the time and supported organizations and efforts such as ACT UP and T.A.G., which took a stand and made the world pay attention and develop medication that let people with AIDS survive.
Over the past 35 years, over 1000 artists, producers and directors have contributed to 25 compilation albums of original music, videos, events and media to keep people engaged in activism dedicated to a post colonial, pluralist future oriented around values of community, connection and care.