World AIDS Day 2008

Public Service Announcement Time folks. Today, December 1st, 2008 marks the 20th anniversary of World AIDS Day. I'm sure there are many places in your area where you can pick up a free red ribbon and wear this is honor of the day and pledging a small, silent dedication to this very important cause.

Take the time to remember those you've known, seen, or heard of that have been impacted by HIV and AIDS. IMPACTED, not died from, not sick from, but have felt the effect of knowing someone or losing someone to the disease. Trust me, you know more people that have been impacted than you may think.

Studies are saying that Black women have become the new face of HIV and AIDS. Tough statistics I have heard say that up to between 75% and 82% of new HIV cases PER YEAR are minority women; Black women making up the majority of that percentage. But remember, just because of that, does not mean that HIV / AIDS has a target population. Anyone can be infected, at any time. GET TESTED, wrap that shit up, use clean needles, do whatever you have to do to protect yourself and others. While there are medications out there that can help you live out a full and long lasting life, there is still reason to be cautious.

Be on your J.O.B. Educate yourself. Educate others. Educate children. Educate parents. Today is not the only day to do this, but it's the present day, and I can't think of any better time to start!

GET TESTED. I ain't gon tell you again. I don't give a damn how long you been with him/her, if you know their parents, or if you know all of his/her ex-lovers. The majority of the problem is that people DO NOT KNOW that they have been infected, and therefore do not act accordingly. Many places offer free testing, and if you're nervous, try to go with a friend for support. Results are always confidential and trust me, getting tested of your own will is the best case scenario than what can possibly happen next.

Take responsibility for yourself. Studies show that African Americans should be getting tested twice a year nowadays. So get your shit together. I don't give a damn if you haven't had even a BREATH of sweet lovin in the past year, GET TESTED. (Last time I'm telling you)

www.worldaidscampaign.org