Today not only begins the countdown to Christmas, it also marks World AIDS Day. People around the world are taking time to provide awareness and information on methods of prevention to a global pandemic that affects the lives of over 33 million people.
First conceived in August 1987 by James W. Bunn and Thomas Netter, the event has grown over the years into a global mission to provide education and information on the spread of HIV, as well as awareness on overcoming the prejudice often associated with HIV.
Celebrities and world leaders alike are doing their part to observe the monumental day. Famous names like Lady Gaga, Justin Timberlake, Kim Kardashian, and Alicia Keys are "signing-off" all forms of social media for the day, and will be featured in "digital death" ads. Beginning in 1995, the President of the United States has made it a priority to make an official proclamation every World AIDS Day. President Obama's address for this year can be found here.
Organizations around the world are working tirelessly today to ensure that they have done their part in the fight against HIV/AIDS. Justin Demafelis, a young Pilipino Advanced Peer Educator for the Young People's Project of APICHA, an organization providing HIV/AIDS services and education to Asian and Pacific Islander communities in New York City as well as providing increased access to comprehensive primary care, preventive health services, and mental health and supportive services, had this to say:
I feel World AIDS Day is important because it's a day when our society can come together to help spread awareness of HIV and AIDS and to see how this pandemic is still affecting all of our communities.
APICHA is helping with raising awareness by providing free and confidential HIV testing, conducting outreaches to the NYC area and also providing workshops to youth in the area.
Right now, you can help in just a small way by sporting a red ribbon showing that you are joining in the battle against HIV.
You can find more information on getting involved, being aware, as well as interesting statistics and facts at the official World AIDS Day website here.
Related Links:
- APICHA Organization Official Website
- Hollywood Headaches: Lady Gaga 'dies' for World AIDS Day
- Wikipedia: World Aids Day
*Image from Schema Magazine
