December 1st is World AIDS Day, and as we reflect on those who have passed away and their loved ones, it is a wonderful opportunity for people living with HIV to celebrate their hopes and dreams for the future. Over 1422 people have been diagnosed with HIV in WA since the emergence of the epidemic in the early 1980’s. There are currently around 1000 people living with HIV in WA.
This year will see a range of events and projects in the lead up to World AIDS Day. These will culminate with the WA AIDS Council hosting an event of remembrance and celebration at the AIDS Memorial in Northbridge (corner Fitzgerald and Stuart St) at 6.30pm on Saturday 1st December 2007.
The PozArt project is currently underway for people living with HIV. Art works and other pieces created by participants will be exhibited at the event. This will be accompanied by entrants in the Design for Life Art work competition from Aboriginal people in the Kimberley region of WA expressing HIV/AIDS and sexual health messages.
There will also be the presentation of the World AIDS Day Community Awards, acknowledging individuals and groups in the community who have significantly contributed to and supported the services that the WA AIDS Council provides to the community. The evening event will close with the unfolding of the WA AIDS Memorial Quilt and the lighting of reflective candles in honour and memory of those lost to HIV/AIDS.
All are welcome to come along and join this event of celebration of those living and remembrance of those passed. For more information about any of these events, or to volunteer for the World AIDS Day Street Appeal on Friday 30th of November, please contact the WA AIDS Council on 9482 0000.
Lisa Tomney
