World AIDS day
Every year, on 1 December, the world commemorates World AIDS Day. People around the world unite to show support for people living with and affected by HIV and to remember those who lost their lives to AIDS.
The inequalities which perpetuate the AIDS pandemic are not inevitable; we can tackle them. This World AIDS Day, UNAIDS is urging each of us to address the inequalities which are holding back progress in ending AIDS.
The “Equalize” slogan is a call to action. It is a prompt for all of us to work for the proven practical actions needed to address inequalities and help end AIDS.
Data from UNAIDS on the global HIV response reveals that during the last two years of COVID-19 and other global crises, progress against the HIV pandemic has faltered, resources have shrunk, and millions of lives are at risk as a result.
We have only eight years left before the 2030 goal of ending AIDS as a global health threat. Economic, social, cultural and legal inequalities must be addressed as a matter of urgency. In a pandemic, inequalities exacerbate the dangers for everyone. Indeed, the end of AIDS can only be achieved if we tackle the inequalities which drive it. World leaders need to act with bold and accountable leadership. And all of us, everywhere, must do all we can to help tackle inequalities too.
Find out more about World AIDS Day 2023.
MYC celebrates AIDS day
Salesian Missions is committed to improving the well-being of children and families in eSwatini, a country running for a first world status but which is still facing a serious increase of HIV/AIDS cases which have left millions of children orphaned. The Don Bosco Children and Life Mission, located in the town of Manzini , receives support from Manzini Youth Care to help children living in poverty who are also HIV positive.
The program provides educational courses, medical treatment, medicines and nutritional meals for youth living with HIV/AIDS. These youth are also eligible to receive counseling, recreation opportunities, medical observation and critical ART treatments.
The Don Bosco Children and Life Mission provides more than 140 at-risk boys ages 6-18 access to primary, secondary and technical education, along with sports programming, youth clubs, guidance counseling and life skills training. Students also have the opportunity to participate in a variety of extracurricular activities including jazz band, brass band, acrobatics and programs. The organization works with youth to promote social skills and values.
How it is celebrated
On this day the youth take part in different activities such as cultural activities. They also light candles and wear red ribbons to show respect to all HIV/AIDS victims.
