Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 2002. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.
Sunday Times (Johannesburg) - Sunday 01 December 2002
We've heard it all before, right? I mean, how many more times can we hear an Aids speech or have a red ribbon flashed at us ? Do we really need an international day to tell it all again?
Well, actually, yes - 'cause some of our brothas and sistas just ain't listening!
But World Aids Day is so much more than just a day on which the same old speeches are made again. It's about creating global awareness of a disease that will touch all of us - if it hasn't already. It's about dispelling the myths about HIV/Aids and educating people - not only about the dangers of HIV/Aids, but also on what the virus is, what it does, how to avoid catching it and how to live positively if you are HIV-positive.
One of the most important reasons for the day, however, is to remember . . . to remember and mourn the loss of loved ones who have become Aids statistics.
So, how is all this done?
Well, World Aids Day is a global event. That means every nation, from the cool folks in Chile to the hot mochachos in Mexico, will unite with people from all over the globe, including the greatest folk in the world - us - in the fight against HIV/Aids.
The media will be filled with info and stories on the disease, events and concerts will be happening all over the world . . . all to remind us how much work remains to be done.
While this is one day dedicated to fighting the disease, the idea is to teach us all that every day needs to be dedicated to protecting ourselves - and living a responsible and healthy lifestyle.
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