On May 22nd Vancouver will join hundreds of communities across the globe in commemorating those who have lost their lives to HIV and AIDS. Hosted by AIDS Vancouver and presented by Joytv, the Vancouver International AIDS Candlelight Memorial joins 1,200 community organizations in 115 countries worldwide in helping to build awareness of the impact AIDS and HIV have on our community. The gathering will take place in Alexandra Park at 8:00 p.m. on Sunday, May 22nd and hopes to encourage support and inspire greater action against the ongoing epidemic.
“There are currently 33 million people living with HIV and endless individuals who have suffered the loss of a friend or family member to this devastating illness,” said Brian Chittock, Executive Director, AIDS Vancouver. “Our hope is that this year’s candlelight memorial helps to bring further awareness of the significant impact that HIV and AIDS have on our community today.”
Now in its 33rd year, the International AIDS Candlelight Memorial is coordinated by the Global Network of People Living with HIV. Health, faith and community-based organizations internationally will partake in the event to demonstrate the need for people living with and affected by HIV and AIDS to work together in ending the epidemic and changing perceptions.
This year’s annual theme is Engage, Educate, Empower! – emphasizing three important steps in creating change. To engage people, communities, governments and donors, to educate the current and next generation about HIV, treatment, prevention and care, and to empower people living with HIV to stand up for their right to live a life free of stigma and discrimination.
AIDS Vancouver will provide candles for all attendants to light just prior to sunset. For more information, please visit www.aidsvancouver.org.
