Focus on World AIDS Day 2018

World AIDS Day takes place on Saturday December 1st, and gives us an opportunity to raise awareness around the fight against HIV. It’s also a chance to show support for those who are living with HIV, and to commemorate all those who have lost their lives to AIDS-related illness.

First established in 1988, World AIDS Day was the first ever global health day, and continues to be held on December 1st every year. The 2018 #ROCKTHERIBBON campaign aims to encourage support for people affected by HIV, and to stamp out discrimination against HIV-positive people.

The Battle against Discrimination

HIV-positive people still face a lot of unfair stigma and discrimination at work, in their communities, and even in their own families. This discrimination can have a devastating effect, isolating the people affected and discouraging them from seeking care and support.

By getting involved and helping to spread awareness this World AIDS Day, you can help to dismantle the unnecessary stigma around HIV and AIDS.

How to Commemorate World AIDS Day

Here are a few ways to show your solidarity with those affected by HIV and AIDS:

  • Purchase and wear your red ribbon.
  • Visit the official World AIDS Day website and download promotional material, such as flyers and posters, to make available in your workplace and community.
  • Set an example to your loved ones by getting tested and knowing your status.
  • Attend a fundraising event in your area – you can find a list of local concerts, sports events or religious events online.
  • You can also organise and host a fundraising event or awareness-raising talk in your community or workplace.

World AIDS Day only comes once a year, but it’s important to help in the fight against AIDS all year round. Think about getting involved as a volunteer or activist, so you can help to champion the rights of those affected by HIV and AIDS.

 

Sources

About World AIDS Day. Retrieved from: http://www.worldaidsday.org/about/

World AIDS Day – South African Government. Retrieved from: https://www.gov.za/world-aids-day-1