The Christian Journal, Yonkers NY – November 22 marked the HIV awareness event “Stigma Stops with Me,” The event seeks to combat the stigma of HIV/AIDS through a collective series of education.
It was part of the activities marking the celebration of this year’s World AIDS Day. Organized by Living Transformation International Center and Calvary Center Church, it was intended to generate awareness about the impact of HIV on us all and the ways in which we can contribute to changing perceptions surrounding the disease.
The event which brought together different Christians Denominations with about fifty participants in attendance, discussions were focused on issues ranging from the role of the religious community in the HIV&AIDS Response; “AIDS-related stigma and discrimination refers to prejudice, negative attitudes, abuse and maltreatment directed at people living with HIV and AIDS”. Pastor Lourdes Rivera said.
AIDS stigma and discrimination exist worldwide, although they manifest themselves differently across countries, communities, religious groups and individuals.
She said that the event was important because it reminds us to continue to be alert to the epidemic AIDS, to be aware of measures for avoiding contracting HIV, and to be always prepared to share such knowledge with others. It also serves to let the world know that we as a united group will always show our attention, care and support to people who have to live with HIV, and that such united efforts will be manifested in various forms continuously and effectively through activities where no one will be discriminated.
Stigma not only makes it more difficult for people trying to come to terms with HIV and manage their illness on a personal level, but it also interferes with attempts to fight the HIV and AIDS epidemic as a whole.
Living Transformation International Center is a non-profit, faith-based community organization. Since its inception, the Centre through organizing different activities has been making enormous efforts in raising the public’s concern about AIDS in the community, promoting AIDS prevention, and educating the public.