The International AIDS Candlelight Memorial, a program of the Global Health Council, is among the world’s oldest movements by civil society for HIV/AIDS remembrance, awareness and community action. Started in 1983, the historic Candlelight Memorial takes place every third Sunday in May and is led by some 1,200 volunteer Candlelight Coordinators in 119 countries who host vigils for their communities. This year HAPAN (HIV AIDS PEER ADVISORY NETWORK) and PLWHA/WA inc. (PEOPLE LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS) will hold the International AIDS Candlelight Memorial at the Perth Aids Memorial Roberson Park North Perth on Sunday 18 May at 6pm.

‘It is the 25th anniversary of this event, so it is an important milestone for our community. While the focus from HIV/AIDS organizations has been on living a longer and better quality life over the last decade, this is still an important event for may people who have been affected by HIV/AIDS. The international theme for this year’s Memorial is ‘Never Forget, Never Give Up.’ It is a timely reminder about how and who the community got to where it is today and of those that still die from AIDS. It’s easy to say. “it’s too painful lets forget,” but for many people it is still a part of our identity.’ –Thomas, a Gay Positive Man

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‘As a long-term survivor, I remember only to well the number of funerals I have attended over the years. While treatments and information have benefited the HIV community, we need to remember those we have lost. Part of the reason we are here today is because of the trials in the early days. It is important to move forward, but not to forget the past otherwise the quilt and the names will be forgotten.’ –Dianne, 22 years and counting.