By Bailey Williams
Every year on December 1, the HIV community celebrates World AIDS Day, a day where we make space for and listen to people living with HIV, mourn those lost to AIDS-related complications and rally together to support the end of the HIV epidemic.
This year marks the 40th year anniversary of the HIV epidemic. As the COVID-19 pandemic continues alongside persisting health inequities, it is more important now than ever to show up and support those living with and impacted by HIV.
AIDS Foundation Chicago (AFC) staff and advocates are participating in events commemorating World AIDS Day throughout the week, starting Monday, November 29. Join these important conversations and donate to help us continue supporting people living with and disproportionately impacted by HIV year-round.
Monday, November 29
“Change Not Chains” virtual event on Monday, November 29, 11 a.m. CT
A panel discussion sponsored by Ohio Health Modernization Movement (OHMM), a coalition of advocates working to modernize their state’s law criminalizing individuals living with HIV. To register, click this Zoom link.
Tuesday, November 30
“Crimson Table Talk” in-person and virtual discussion on Tuesday, November 30, 6:30-8:30 p.m. CT at Tinley Park Community Arts Center in Tinley, IL
AFC Ryan White Care Coordination Manager DJ Rivers-White, MA will join the Joliet Area/South Suburban Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and various community partners for both an in-person and virtual discussion. In-person attendees must show proof of a negative COVID-19 test. To register click this link.
Wednesday, December 1
In-person Community Celebration of the Historic Passage of HB1063 on Wednesday, December 1, 1:00-2:00 p.m. CT at the DuSable Museum, 740 E 56th Place, Chicago, IL 60637
This event will celebrate the historic passage of HB1063, which decriminalized HIV in Illinois. The event will feature the presentation of the Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation’s (ETAF) Legislator Leadership Award to to recipients Senator Robert Peters, of the 13th District and Representative Carol Ammons, of the 103rd District—and will feature keynote speakers. Featured keynote speakers include: Senator Robert Peters of the 13th District, ETAF Legislative Leadership Award recipient; Representative Carol Ammons of the 103rd District, ETAF Legislative Leadership Award recipient; Robert Suttle, founding member of Sero; Christian Castro, coalition member of the Illinois HIV Action Alliance; and Chris Wade, member of the Illinois Alliance for Sound AIDS Policy. A negative COVID-19 test or proof of vaccination is required for the in-person event.
In-person event at Belmont Harbor Yacht Club on Wednesday, December 1 at 9:00 a.m. CT
Antonio King, LGBTQ Health and Outreach Liaison in the Chicago Dept. of Public Health’s HIV/STI Bureau, and John Peller, AFC President/CEO, will comment on the current status of the HIV epidemic, along with Alderman Tom Tunney and AIDS Garden Chicago Board President Yoni Pizer. Immediately following the remarks and refreshments, attendees are invited to join AFC for a sneak preview of the AIDS Garden Chicago, which is nearing completion. To RSVP, email Willa Iglitzen Lang at the Chicago Parks Foundation, [email protected]. Please note: The Garden is still under construction so appropriate footwear is required.
Monday, December 6
Virtual conversation: HIV Data Dissemination to Inform GTZ-IL Progress and Identify Areas for Improvement on Monday, December 6, 12:00 p.m. to 1 p.m. CT
The Getting to Zero-Illinois (GTZ-IL) Plan launched in May 2019, detailing goals for achieving zero new HIV diagnoses by the year 2030. This initiative is led by the Chicago Department of Public Health, the Illinois Department of Public Health, and AFC, and includes representatives from across the state. This event will provide an overview of the GTZ-IL Initiative, as well as updates on GTZ-IL activities to date. One of the most substantial updates is the launch of a GTZ-IL data dashboard earlier this year, the development of which was led by CFAR investigators. The dynamic and interactive data dashboard serves to both track the progress of the initiative and allows users to customize and share detailed data on HIV trends in Chicago and Illinois. The presenters will walk participants through relevant use-cases of the dashboard, and answer questions about how this tool can support ongoing and future work. RSVP here.
