December 1 is World AIDS Day, and this year the WA AIDS Council are lighting the city red.

Iconic Perth landmarks will turn their lights red in an effort to raise awareness of HIV, commemorate those who have passed away and to show support for people living with HIV in 2018.

The WA AIDS Council is a non-government organisation that was established in 1985, in the midst of global epidemic about a largely misunderstood disease. A small group of compassionate, caring and brave citizens worked tirelessly to support HIV positive people and provide dignity and care when so many were experiencing fear and rejection from the general community.

33 years on, the WA AIDS Council remains committed to the HIV response in WA. This response includes creating healthy, inclusive and safe communities and encouraging all people to test and know their HIV status.

David Kernohan, CEO of the WA AIDS Council, states that while advances in treatment have made HIV a chronic manageable illness, there remains a misunderstanding within the broader community that HIV only affects men who have sex with men. The statistics indicate an increasing number of heterosexual men are being diagnosed with HIV and it is important for men to test for HIV.

The Light the City Red campaign has been possible thanks to the generous support of Yagan Square, Optus Stadium, Matagarup Bridge, Elizabeth Quay, The Bell Tower, Council House, Crown Metropol, The Court, Regal Theatre, Perth Concert Hall, Trafalgar Bridge, St Mary’s Cathedral and The Old Mill.

Source:- Media release