Honoring World AIDS Day
Monday, December 1st marked the 26th annual observance of World AIDS Day across the globe. Over the years, countless lives both foreign and domestic have been claimed by this disease. AIDS is a global epidemic affecting a vast number of countries and individuals but here in the United States, the African American community is disproportionately affected.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the rate of new HIV infections in African Americans is 8 times that of whites based on population size. Our communities account for a higher proportion of new HIV infections, including those living with HIV and the number of people ever diagnosed with AIDS. From these statistics, it is clear that the African American community faces the heaviest burden, but this does not mean that we must become victims of circumstance. HIV/AIDS is most certainly an epidemic, but it is one that I believe we can beat.
This year’s World AIDS Day theme was “Focus, Partner, Achieve: An AIDS-free Generation.” The underlying message behind this title is clear; work to ensure better lives and access to care and treatment among those affected. In honor of the countless lives lost to HIV and AIDS, we must reflect and acknowledge the ongoing work that is required to combat this epidemic across the globe by first achieving these goals at home in our own communities.
In order to successfully achieve our goals, we must be proactive by mobilizing our community to take the necessary steps required to eradicate this epidemic. First, we must focus on the issue at hand and recognize the level of effort required for communities, organizations, and governments. We must follow the HIV/AIDS Care Continuum Initiative, which provides an action plan for federal agencies, by partnering together as a community, reaching out to leaders, local organizations, and local health officials. If we are able to mobilize our community in this manner, achieving an AIDS-free generation is not far on the horizon.
As a member of Congress and registered nurse committed to the advancement of modern medicine and better access to healthcare despite origin or income level, I believe this can be achieved through increased access to the full range of health care services; Robust support for domestic and global health programs – including those that focus on HIV/AIDS, family planning, and reproductive health care; Greater investment in sex education in the U.S. and around the world; Protection of the Affordable Care Act; and Advancing the health and human rights of all people.
The AIDS-free world we want is within reach and I will continue to make these issues a priority during my time in Congress. I encourage my colleagues and each of our communities to stand in support of an AIDS-free world.”
