2010 is a significant year for HIV and human rights. It was the year set as the deadline by the United Nations to fulfil basic health care and HIV treatments for people living with HIV. "The world has failed tens of millions of people who still cannot access basic life-saving treatments" said Mr Malcolm. This year has seen the long-awaited removal of barriers to travel for people with HIV in the United States (an Obama campaign promise), South Korea and China. However, fifty other countries, including Australia, still maintain restrictions on entry, travel or stay for people living with HIV.
The International AIDS Candlelight Memorial is a time to remember loved ones and honour those people affected by the HIV epidemic. "Over 80 Canberrans have died due to the HIV epidemic” Mr Malcolm added. “In a tight-knit community, that makes many brothers, sisters, mothers, fathers, friends and lovers dearly missed. Their memory reminds us why we must continue the fight against HIV."
All guests attending this free event will be invited to add their signature to the Canberra Declaration on HIV and Human Rights.
For more information contact:
Andrew Burry mobile 0403 416 040
andrew.burry@aidsaction.org.au
The International AIDS Candlelight Memorial will begin with an ecumenical service at All Saints’ Ainslie.
A Candlelight Ceremony hosted by the AIDS Action Council and Amnesty International ACT will be held at the National Museum of Australia. The ceremony will feature the launch of the Canberra Declaration on HIV and Human Rights, music and choral performances, and the release of hundreds of candle lanterns into the water in the Garden of Australian Dreams.
Ecumenical Church Service
5.30 pm Sunday 16 May
All Saints’ Church, Cowper Street Ainslie
Candlelight Memorial Ceremony
7.00 pm Sunday 17 May
National Museum of Australia, Lawson Crescent Acton.
www.aidsaction.org.au/candlelight
Source: UNAIDS, Mapping Progress
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