This year marks the 21st anniversary of the creation of World AIDS Day (December 1 worldwide) and even after 21 years HIV/AIDS is still an issue within the local, national and international community.

In 2009, in its 24th year of operation, the WA AIDS Council is still at the forefront of the battle that continues to rage around the world to combat HIV/AIDS. The red Ribbon is the internationally recognised symbol of HIV/AIDS and World AIDS Day is the one day of the year that each and every country undertakes awareness raising around this issue.

Once again this year on World AIDS Day we will be hosting a Celebration and Remembrance at the AIDS Memorial in Robertson Park North Perth from 5.30 pm. Hosted by the wonderful
Verity James and with special guest speaker Senator Louise Pratt, Chair of the Federal Parliamentary Liaison Group for HIV/AIDS, BBVs and STIs. The evening will showcase a Poz Photographic exhibition featuring the iconic red ribbon in photographs from a number of people living with HIV here in WA.

We will once again be saluting a number of heroes who have contributed to making a difference here in Western Australia with our annual World AIDS Day Awards. This annual ceremony focuses on individuals and organisations who have made a significant contribution to HIV/AIDS in the past year.

“On World AIDS Day 2009 it is important that we know what a difference people can make and on the 21st anniversary getting the message out there is as important as it has ever been,” WA AIDS Council Chairperson Willie Rowe stated.

“HIV/AIDS still has an impact, even after all this time and we need to never forget those who we have lost along the way and celebrate those who are still with us in 2009. It is vital that this issue never drops off the radar and remember that it affects people from all walks of life.”

For more information about World AIDS Day or to discuss media opportunities please contact Mark Reid, at WAAC on (08) 9482 0009 or 0408 090 180.