Ep 4. Night IV

When We Rise season 1 episode 4, titled Night IV, tells the story of the aftermath of the AIDS epidemic which began to devastate the gay community of San Francisco in the late 1980s. The episode opens with Cleve Jones attempting to organize a candlelight vigil to honor the memory of those who have died from AIDS, but he struggles to find a place to hold the vigil due to the fear and stigma surrounding the disease.

Meanwhile, Roma Guy and Diane Jones are dealing with the emotional fallout from losing several of their close friends to the disease. Roma becomes particularly involved in the fight for AIDS research and treatment, using her position in the Women's Building to advocate for funding and support. At the same time, Diane begins working as a caregiver for people with AIDS, bearing witness to their suffering and providing comfort in their final moments.

Throughout the episode, we also see the story of Ken Jones, an African American Vietnam veteran who becomes one of the first activists to speak out against the AIDS crisis in the black community. His efforts are met with resistance and disbelief, as many people see AIDS as a white, gay disease. But Ken refuses to be silenced, and eventually his message begins to resonate with black communities across the country.

As the episode progresses, we see the toll that the AIDS epidemic takes on the main characters and their relationships. Cleve struggles to reconcile his anger and grief over the loss of so many friends, while Roma's dedication to the cause puts a strain on her marriage to Diane. Ken finds solace in a new relationship, but faces new challenges as his health begins to deteriorate.

Despite the heartbreak and pain depicted in Night IV, there are also moments of hope and triumph. The candlelight vigil that Cleve organizes ultimately takes place, and thousands of people come together to mourn and honor the lives lost to AIDS. Roma's advocacy work pays off as funding for AIDS research and treatment begins to increase. And Ken's message of empowerment and education begins to resonate with more and more people, helping to break down the barriers of fear and ignorance that had surrounded AIDS.

Overall, When We Rise season 1 episode 4 is a powerful depiction of the AIDS crisis and its impact on the lives of those who lived through it. The episode balances moments of heartbreak and loss with moments of resilience and activism, showing how a community came together to fight for justice and equality in the face of devastating adversity.