For two decades, the Sin Sity Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence have been a pillar of the Las Vegas LGBTQ+ community. With their signature white face paint, dramatic habits, and unwavering commitment to charity and activism, the Sisters have provided vital support to those living with HIV/AIDS and other marginalized groups. This year marks a significant milestone—20 years since their founding, alongside the 17th anniversary of their iconic Red Dress event.

We sat down with Billy Pierro, also known as Sister Prudence, to reflect on the organization’s journey, the evolution of Red Dress, and their ongoing fight to serve those in need through their cornerstone initiative, the Sisters AIDS Drug Assistance Program (SADAP).

A Mission of Love, Activism, and Support

The Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence were originally founded in San Francisco in 1979, growing into an international order with chapters worldwide. In Las Vegas, the Sin Sity Sisters emerged two decades ago with a unique mission.

“Looking back, we started the order because there were a few of us who were HIV-positive at the time, myself included,” recalls Sister Prudence. “I had just been diagnosed, and I wanted to funnel all the energy I was feeling into something meaningful. I didn’t want to wallow in fear—I wanted to make a positive impact on the community.”

That passion led to the creation of SADAP, an entirely community-funded program designed to help people access life-saving medications. Unlike many similar programs, SADAP does not accept government funding, meaning every dollar is raised through grassroots efforts. The Sisters’ major fundraising events—including their monthly fundraiser at Oink and large-scale events like Red Dress and Nunway—ensure that funds go directly to those in need.

“SADAP was created because there were gaps in assistance,” Prudence explains. “Government programs can be helpful, but they often leave out those who earn just above the poverty line. If you have a minimum-wage job, suddenly you don’t qualify for help—but that doesn’t mean you can afford HIV medication. That’s where we step in.”

Adapting to a Changing Landscape

Over 20 years, the Sisters’ mission has evolved alongside the realities of HIV/AIDS.

“HIV/AIDS is not the same crisis it was in the ‘80s and ‘90s,” says Prudence. “We now have PrEP, which is a game-changer. About five years ago, we had to start offering PrEP services because we saw a need for prevention as well as treatment.”

The Sisters have always worked to bridge gaps in services, whether it’s for those who are HIV-positive and need medication or those who are HIV-negative and need resources to stay that way. In addition to their work with PrEP, they’ve recently expanded into transgender support services, recognizing another community in dire need of assistance.

“We help people on both ends of the spectrum,” Prudence says. “People who are positive need medication to stay undetectable and live a healthy life without spreading the virus. On the other end, we have people who are negative, and we need to keep them that way. Our mission is to serve both.”

A Community-Funded Effort

One of the most remarkable things about the Sin Sity Sisters is their financial independence. Unlike many non-profits, they receive no government assistance.

“We are completely self-funded,” says Prudence. “Every dollar comes from fundraising and community donations.”

This model allows the Sisters to respond quickly to urgent needs. Because there’s no red tape, they can provide immediate assistance to someone who walks in needing medication that same day.

“I can’t tell you how many times someone has come to me in crisis, and I’ve been able to hand them their medication immediately,” Prudence shares. “Sometimes, I also guide them to another agency that they didn’t realize they qualified for. Either way, no one leaves without a solution.”

The Legacy and Evolution of Red Dress

One of the most anticipated events in the Las Vegas LGBTQ+ social calendar is the annual Red Dress event. This year marks its 17th anniversary, and it remains one of the Sisters’ most successful fundraisers.

Originally, Red Dress had a strict requirement: attendees had to wear a red dress, regardless of gender identity. However, a few years ago, the Sisters made a major change to be more inclusive.

“I fought really hard to remove the dress requirement,” Prudence recalls. “We were hearing from the trans community that it was triggering for some of them. How could we ask a trans man, who has fought his whole life to live authentically, to put on a dress just to attend our event?”

The Sisters ultimately rebranded Red Dress with the slogan: “Wear Red, Not a Dress.” The result? A more inclusive event that still encourages creativity and self-expression.

“And guess what?” Prudence adds. “People still show up in amazing dresses. We’ve seen the most stunning looks, but now we also see kilts, tuxedos, and other interpretations of red. It has only made the event better.”

A Night of Fashion, Fundraising, and Fun

This year’s Red Dress is themed simply as a celebration of 20 years. The event has been hosted in a variety of venues over the years, from Beauty Bar to Notoriety, and now finds a home downtown at The Usual Place.

“We’ve always been fortunate to have amazing partners,” Prudence says. “PublicUs has catered the event for years, practically donating their services. And DJ Access has been with us forever, ensuring the music is always perfect.”

Past Red Dress events have featured headliners, but the Sisters have learned that the most successful approach is to focus on local talent.

“We realized that we didn’t need to bring in outside names,” Prudence explains. “Las Vegas has incredible talent right here. Instead of competing with local queens and performers, we’re partnering with them. It strengthens the community.”

The Role of the Sisters and Their Future

While the Sin Sity Sisters are best known for their charity work, their presence in the community serves a broader purpose.

“Every time a Sister walks into a room, it’s a political statement,” says Prudence. “We are here. We are visible. We will not be silenced.”

The Sisters’ structure includes Sisters, Guards, and Saints—each playing a unique role. Guards provide support, while Saints are honored individuals who have made significant contributions to the organization.

“Our Saints are an extension of our family,” Prudence says. “They fundraise, advocate, and help amplify our message. Without them, we wouldn’t be where we are today.”

As they look toward the future, the Sisters are preparing for an increased demand for their services due to recent attacks on LGBTQ+ rights and HIV/AIDS funding cuts.

“The government is trying to defund HIV/AIDS programs,” Prudence warns. “We are bracing for a surge in need, and we’ll need the community’s support more than ever.”

A Call to Action

As the Sin Sity Sisters celebrate 20 years, they remain dedicated to their mission: raising funds, spreading joy, and fighting for those who need them most.

“We are 100% volunteer-run. Every dollar goes back into the community,” Prudence emphasizes. “If you can buy a ticket to Red Dress, donate, or support us in any way, it makes a difference.”

Red Dress is more than just a party—it’s a night that funds life-saving medication and ensures that the Sisters can continue their work.

“We’ve been here for 20 years,” Prudence says with pride. “And we’re not going anywhere.”

Join the Celebration!

Support the Sin Sity Sisters and their mission—wear red, show up, and make a difference!