Students’ human ribbon to mark World AIDS Day

Participants will hold red glow sticks to create an illuminated ribbon.

STAFF REPORT

SLIPPERY ROCK, Pa. — Slippery Rock University students will mark the 20th anniversary of World AIDS Day by forming a human red ribbon Monday to remind people that HIV/AIDS has not disappeared.

World AIDS Day, which started Dec. 1, 1988, is focused on raising money, increasing awareness, fighting prejudice and improving education.

Students involved with the Health Outreach Through Peer Education program will make information about HIV and AIDS available from noon to 2 p.m. in the University Union and at Weisenfluh Dining Hall. HOPE members will also distribute red ribbons signifying AIDS/HIV support.

At 7:30 p.m., people are encouraged to meet on the Bailey Library Quad for a “Celebration of Hope.” Participants will form a human red ribbon, with each participant holding a red glow stick to create the illuminated ribbon — a symbolic reminder that HIV/AIDS remains an epidemic nationally and globally.

The Chosen Generation Gospel Choir will provide music, and HOPE will distribute HIV/AIDS information.

Participating organizations in the celebration include the Feminist Majority Leadership Alliance, Black Action Society, Campus Crusade for Christ, the Physical Education Club and others.

Those unable to attend the celebration are asked to wear a red ribbon pin or red clothing Monday to show support for efforts in helping prevent the spread of AIDS. Ribbons will also be available at the McLachlan Student Health Center.

UNAIDS estimates there are now 33.2 million people living with HIV, including 2.5 million children. Approximately half of all people who become infected with HIV do so before they are 25 and are killed by AIDS before they are 35.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports more than 1 million Americans may be infected with HIV, one quarter of whom are unaware of their infection.