March 20, 2008 marks the second annual National Native HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (NNHAAD). This day is an opportunity to raise awareness about the impact of HIV/AIDS on Native people.
HIV continues to increase among Native people as it has over the past decade. American Indians and Alaska Natives (AI/AN) had the third highest rate per 100,000 persons (above Whites) of AIDS diagnoses in 2005, despite having the smallest population.
The purpose of this day is to: 1) Encourage Native people to get educated and to learn more about HIV/AIDS and its impact in their community; 2) Work together to encourage HIV counseling and testing options in Native communities; and 3) Help decrease the stigma associated with HIV/AIDS. It will also be a time to reflect on those who have passed and who are infected and affected by HIV/AIDS. It is also a “celebration of life” for all Native people.
Because NNHAAD is a nationwide effort, the Native Capacity Building Assistance Network (Colorado State University’s Center for Applied Studies in American Ethnicity [CASAE], Inter Tribal Council of Arizona, Inc. [ITCA], and National Native American AIDS Prevention Center [NNAAPC]), has made a “Call to Action” for Native people across the United States. This call is to ensure Native communities realize that the epidemic is growing.
Please join us on this important day by organizing events in your local community. You can do this by handing out NNHAAD Save the Date cards at community events and organizations leading up to March 20, 2008; putting up Awareness Day posters in clinics, schools, wellness centers or other community locations; and most importantly by organizing a local activity to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS in your community on the day. Please let your tribal or nation newspaper, radio or other local media know about the Awareness Day and about your local event.
For questions, information, and help with planning your local event, please contact the Native Capacity Building Assistance (CBA) Network Agencies:
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