This morning, City Councilor Nancy Smith, read the 2023 World AIDS Day Proclamation alongside City Councilors Steve O’Halloran and Patrick Lyons, and Health Equity Alliance Director of Communications, Jill Henderson. This proclamation marks December 1st, 2023 as World AIDS Day in the City of Ellsworth
This effort highlights the ongoing concerns surrounding HIV infection and AIDS, emphasizing the global, national, and local efforts needed to address stigma, promote equitable care, and prevent the spread of the virus. The World AIDS Day theme, “Let Communities Lead,” underscores the importance of listening to those with lived experiences. It recognizes Health Equity Alliance’s commitment to observing World AIDS Day, remembering those lost, and addressing remaining challenges. The statement also emphasizes the role of scientific research, breaking down stigma, and promoting the U=U concept—undetectable equals untransmittable. In line with this year’s World AIDS Day observance, the call to action encourages understanding and spreading information about U=U, raising awareness about HIV risks, combating stigma, and supporting care for affected individuals. Overall, it urges collective efforts to empower communities in the fight against HIV and AIDS.
Health Equity Alliance (HEAL), formerly known as Down East AIDS Network and whose original office was in Ellsworth, strives each year to raise awareness and champion positive change.
Read the full proclamation here.
