World AIDS Day Facts
The World Health Organization created World AIDS Day in 1988 to promote AIDS awareness. AIDS, caused by HIV (the human immunodeficiency virus), attacks indiscriminately: men, women and children of all races, incomes and locations. Does this Spark an idea?
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When and Where
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World AIDS Day occurs on December 1 each year. World AIDS Day is inclusive: all ages, sexes and sexual orientations are urged to participate. Major cities have events, which may be found online or by contacting a local AIDS charity.
Who Is Affected?
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According to the United Nations AIDS division, 33.2 million people are living with HIV, 95 percent of those in developing countries. The disease is not slowing its attack; women are the largest new group of afflicted patients.
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The Red Ribbon
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Wear a red ribbon, the international symbol of the disease, on World AIDS Day to show your support for people living with AIDS. There is no official red ribbon; it is as simple to construct as cutting a small section of ribbon and securing it with a safety pin.
Participate
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Check your city's website to find activities you can participate in on World AIDS Day, such as marathons or bike races. You can also raise funds with bake sales, community dances or sporting games, with proceeds going to local AIDS charities.
Theme
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Every year, World AIDS Day chooses a new theme. For 2009, it is: "Universal Access and Human Rights."
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