“One of the best ways to fight stigma and empower
HIV positive people is by speaking out openly and honestly about who we are and
what we experience.”
~ Alex Garner, HIV Activist ~
We live in a globe of stigma and intolerance, too often,
coming out to say your status is met with anger, criticism, and possibly even
hostility. The most common emotion that people experience upon learning that
they are HIV positive is shame. It is a critical and paralyzing emotion that
has no advantages and serves no purpose. Speaking out is one of the best remedy
to shame. When people speak openly and boldly about their HIV status, we can
find genuineness and empowerment that can help to foster a stronger and
healthier society.
World AIDS day is celebrated every year all over the world
on 1st of December to raise the public awareness about AIDS
(Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome). AIDS is a pandemic caused due to the infection
of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). The day is celebrated by the government
organisations, NGOs, civil societies and other health institutions, dedicated
to commemorate those who have passed on and to raise awareness about AIDS and
the global spread of the HIV virus.
The first World AIDS Day was held in 1988 after health
ministers from around the world met in London, England and agreed to such a day
as a way of highlighting the enormity of the AIDS pandemic and nations’
responsibility to ensure universal treatment, care and support for people
living with HIV and AIDS.
The World Assembly of Youth (WAY) aspires to continue
encouraging all members to organise programmes to combat the causes of AIDS
pandemics and other deadly diseases. We prioritise
in bringing awareness about the HIV/AIDS issue to the youth globally. In
2006, WAY published a book entitled ‘World Responses to HIV/AIDS Pandemic’
available at the following link: http://www.way.org.my/books/category/world-responses-to-hiv-aids-pandemic.
We believe it is the opportunity for young people to work
actively and collaboratively with partners and other stakeholders around the
world to raise awareness about HIV and help us move closer to the goal of an
AIDS-free generation.
Happy World AIDS Day!
