This year’s Global AIDS Awareness Week kicks off with the annual “We Are Here” storyboard art installation, a collection of diverse images and experiences of local HIV+ folks that will be on display in Greater Victoria Public Library until Dec. 5. Now in its fourth year, the “We Are Here” anti-HIV stigma project involves local people living with HIV sharing their personal stories with their fellow Victorians, reminding us all that HIV doesn’t just happen elsewhere – it happens right here, too. Craig Dales, Executive Director of VIPWAS says “This is an important way to decrease the stigma of living with HIV and educate the community about the realities of living with HIV. Everyone’s story is important.” Look for “Ongoing Events” at the GVPL website for more info.
o Nov. 26 Mayor Lisa Helps will make a formal Proclamation of World AIDS Day in Council.
o Nov. 28 the 8th annual Rock Your Awareness event takes place at Logan’s Pub: a night of music, education, and fundraising.
o Dec. 1, World AIDS Day, AVI and VIPWAS will be hosting a flash mob: We encourage anyone who wants to be part of the flash mob to bring hand drums, tambourines and other noise makers and help us remind Victorians that We Are Here! Hugs and high fives will be given out freely to counter stigma.
Locations/times as follows:
–11:30am - Douglas & Yates
–11:50pm - Blanshard & Yates
–12:10pm - Quadra-Vancouver & Pandora (Our Place)
o From 5-6:30pm on Dec. 1, World AIDS Day, there will be a solidarity and remembrance gathering featuring a candle lit red ribbon display on the steps of the Legislature.
o Dec. 9, Victoria Native Friendship Centre’s noon time Lunch and Learn will be focused on HIV and Aboriginal AIDS Awareness Week. Call Kelsey for more info: 250-384-3211 ext 2228