World AIDS Day is dedicated to raising awareness of the AIDS epidemic caused by the spread of the HIV infection. It takes place every year on December 1 and is observed by all United Nations member.
This Friday at from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., Double Tree by Hilton is bringing AIDS awareness to Tallahassee in honor of World AIDS day.
According to the Joint United Nations Program on HIV/AIDS, AIDS has killed more than 25 million people between 1981 and 2007,and an estimated 33.2 million people worldwide live with HIV as of 2011.
Sylvia Hubbard, director ofMinority Alliance for Advocating Community Awareness and Action (MAACA), is hosting The Capital City Pre World AIDS Day event.
AIDS is not sexy, Hubbard said. Awarenessevents areimportant to highlightthis totally preventable disease.There is no cure once you get it and the consequences are grievous lots of medical bills, pills, sickness, and in many cases death.
She believes that more community events should be hosted to get Tallahassee aware of this worldwide issue.
The Capital City Pre World AIDS Day event gives those working in the field of HIV/AIDSan opportunity to relax, reflect and unwind before the actual Dec 1, event, Hubbard continued.
Double Tree can expect nearly 80 participants to attend. Hubbard has an entertaining, yet informative evening planned with several speakers, soft music and a dinner.This event is important because they want to keep everyone aware of HIV and remember those who have passed. Families that have lost loved ones to the disease. Guests of the hotel and other special guests are invited to join the festivities.
I cant wait to go and see what its all about, said Darryl Taylor, a junior criminal justice student from Miami. Its so important for everyone and especially students to be aware of the diseases that can come with not having protected sex.
HIV can be transmitted through infected bodily fluids, but most commonly by having sex without a condom or by sharing infected needles, or other drug injecting utensils. The red ribbonis the global symbol for unity with those who have HIV and those living with AIDS.
People need to wrap it up, said Katherine Moore, a senior political science student from Detroit. Everyone knows what they are supposed to do before having sex. Its an imperative part of life.
For more information on how to Act Aware, visit www.worldaidsday.org.