| MEDIA RELEASE
WORLD AIDS DAY
DECEMBER 1
At a time when attention is focused on conflict abroad,
the atrocities in Bali, the aftermath of 9/11, the looming conflict with
Iraq or on the disastrous drought situation facing farmers throughout
the country, it is easy to forget the ongoing tragedy of HIV/AIDS which
in the last year has claimed an estimated three million lives.
That's over 8,000 lives lost every day of every week.
The emotional, psychological and financial implication of the epidemic
is beyond measure. Stigma and discrimination is still widespread, millions
of children have been orphaned, health and social systems are unable to
cope, and businesses are unable to find skilled labour.
As World AIDS Day, December1, approaches we need to refocus our efforts
in raising awareness, reducing stigma and discrimination, promoting risk
minimisation and assisting those living with or affected by HIV/AIDS.
Australia has had a world-leading response to the HIV/AIDS epidemic and
has consequently not seen the same devastation as many of our near neighbours
in the Pacific. But it will only be by continuing this response and not
letting our guard down that we can hope to maintain and even reduce the
current levels of HIV infection in this country.
Numerous events and activities have been planned for the Illawarra and
Shoalhaven. These include the zany Condomania promotion, where walking
talking condoms will be distributing the safe sex message .to various
pubs in the Shoalhaven. Also in the Shoalhaven is a World AIDS Awareness
Night being held at the Tea Club in Nowra, the feature band is Identity
Crisis and this is a youth friendly venue.
Red ribbons, being the international symbol of AIDS awareness will be
on sale to try and raise funds for much needed programs at home and overseas.
Red ribbons can be purchased at Berry Markets, Kiama Terralong St, Shellharbour
Square, Wollongong Mall, Corrimal, and Thirroul Plaza. The AIDS Memorial
Quilt will be displayed at the Botanical Gardens as well as at the Art
Gallery from December 2 till Christmas.
Banners with a message of “remembrance” are currently displayed
on overhead bridges in Kiama and on Springfield Rd. Furthermore, there
will be an interdenominational service held on Sunday December 1. at Wesley
Church on the Mall.
For further information please contact Annette Bowen at Healthy Cities
Illawarra on 42265000. |
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