Keep the light on HIV: International AIDS Candlelight Memorial 2014

indiaaidsalliance 18 May, 2014

At least 35 million people are estimated to be living with HIV globally, with more than 2.1 million in India alone. Advancements in antiretroviral treatment (ART) have transformed the lives of people living with HIV (PLHIV). With access to ART, life expectancy of a positive person can be as long as someone who is not infected. But in spite of so much progress, AIDS is not over. Too many people don’t know they’re infected. Too many don’t have access to prevention, treatment, care, and support services. Too many are still at risk.

The light must be kept on HIV. Our concerted and committed efforts to fight the epidemic are still needed. To mark International AIDS Candlelight Memorial 2014, India HIV/AIDS Alliance joins with other organisations and communities around the world to remember those we have lost and recommit to a strong, effective and sustained response to HIV/AIDS.

Coordinated by the Global Network of People living with HIV (GNP+), the International AIDS Candlelight Memorial is one of the world’s oldest and largest grassroots mobilisation campaigns for HIV awareness. Started in 1983, the event takes place every third Sunday in May and is led by a coalition of some 1,200 community organisations in 115 countries. By mobilizing communities, the campaign raises social consciousness about HIV/AIDS and builds global solidarity in the response to the epidemic.

Today remember our work is not over. Services still do not reach all those who need them. Stigma and discrimination are a daily fact of life for PLHIV and other marginalized communities. Laws criminalize those most at risk, increasing their vulnerability. The end of AIDS will remain only a dream if we do not finish what we’ve started. Today light a candle and remember those we’ve lost, those who fought with us and in whose memories we continue this fight. Today and every day, let’s keep the light on HIV.

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India HIV/AIDS Alliance (Alliance India) is a diverse partnership that brings together committed organisations and communities to support sustained responses to HIV in India. Complementing the Indian national programme, Alliance India works through capacity building, knowledge sharing, technical support and advocacy. Through our network of partners, Alliance India supports the delivery of effective, innovative, community-based HIV programmes to key populations affected by the epidemic.