World AIDS Day
World AIDS Day takes place on 1 December each year.
It’s an opportunity for people worldwide to unite in the fight against HIV, to show support for people living with HIV, and to commemorate those who have died from AIDS-related illnesses. Founded in 1988, World AIDS Day was the first ever global health day.
Over 103,800 people are living with HIV in the UK. Globally, there are an estimated 38 million people who have the virus. Despite the virus only being identified in 1984, more than 35 million people have died of HIV or AIDS, making it one of the most destructive pandemics in history.
Today, scientific advances have been made in HIV treatment, there are laws to protect people living with HIV and we understand so much more about the condition. Despite this, each year in the UK over 4,450 people are diagnosed with HIV, people do not know the facts about how to protect themselves and others, and stigma and discrimination remain a reality for many people living with the condition.
World AIDS Day is important because it reminds the public and government that HIV has not gone away – there is still a vital need to increase awareness, fight prejudice and improve education. HIV stigma is still an issue that needs tackling.
HIV has had a devastating effect on the LGBTQ+ community around the world, with a heavy stigma founded in homophobic, biphobic and transphobic discrimination. As an organisation, we are committed to supporting the LGBTQ+ community in Wales and beyond, and PHW will never tolerate discrimination of any kind.
We have a staff LGBT+ network, Enfys, which is for both members of the community and supportive allies alike. If you would like to get involved, find out more about becoming an ally, or to join the Enfys network, please contact the network co-chairs, Lewis Owen and Gavin Collins.