After fleeing El Salvador's brutal civil war, Wilfredo Valencia Palacios returned to continue fighting the important struggle of securing human rights for the gay, lesbian and bisexual community. Despite death threats, Palacios continues to defend the rights of sexual minorities and sex workers. Palacios understands the importance of taking HIV prevention to the people who need it most and have the most difficulty accessing the information. Palacios works with other local activists to deliver condoms throughout San Salvador, does HIV counseling on the street, and conducts a safer sex workshop in gay bars.

His courage in confronting homophobia has empowered others to continue fighting for the rights of sexual minorities in El Salvador. Palacios also helped organize the first AIDS vigil and has been working with other activists to develop a Gay Cultural Center in El Salvador. The Center will serve both as a social gathering place and service delivery organization as well as a place for activists to develop strategies for the future.