World AIDS Day 2023: “Let Communities Lead” in the Fight Against AIDS

Every year, on December 1st, the world comes together to commemorate World AIDS Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness about the global AIDS epidemic caused by the spread of the human immunodeficiency virus, more commonly known as HIV, and honoring those who have passed away due to the disease. This year marks the 35th anniversary of the creation of this significant day, highlighting the progress made over the past three and a half decades. The 2023 theme, “Let Communities Lead,” underscores the pivotal role of community involvement in the global fight against HIV/AIDS.

Since its inception in 1988, World AIDS Day has served as a global platform to educate, inform, and mobilize communities to combat the HIV/AIDS epidemic. Over the years, advancements in medical research, increased access to treatment and prevention, and a broader understanding of the virus have contributed to significant progress. However, with an estimated 37.7 million people still living with HIV globally, the fight is far from over.

Ver esta publicación en Instagram

Una publicación compartida por World AIDS Day (@worldaidsday)

The day is one of eleven official global public health campaigns recognized by the World Health Organization (WHO). It stands alongside initiatives such as World Health Day, World Blood Donor Day, and World Immunization Week. The global impact of AIDS has been staggering, with an estimated 27.2 to 47.8 million lives lost to the disease by 2020.

History: Why Is it Celebrated?

World AIDS Day was conceived in 1987 by James W. Bunn and Thomas Netter, public information officers for the Global Programme on AIDS at the World Health Organization. Their idea was brought to life by Dr. Jonathan Mann, who approved the concept and designated December 1st, 1988, as the first observance of World AIDS Day. Bunn’s strategic choice of the date aimed to maximize media coverage post-US elections but before the Christmas holidays.

In its initial years, the day focused on children and young people, aiming to break down the stigma surrounding the disease. The Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) took over the planning and promotion of World AIDS Day in 1996, expanding its efforts beyond a single day to the year-round World AIDS Campaign in 1997.

On World AIDS Day, we raise a red ribbon to remember how far we’ve come, the work that’s left, and those devastated by this disease, particularly the LGBTQI+ folks and people of color who endured the brunt of this epidemic instead of being seen.

Let’s finish this fight. pic.twitter.com/AIrd7snRB2

— President Biden (@POTUS) December 1, 2022

In the US, the White House began commemorating World AIDS Day with a 28-foot tall red AIDS Ribbon on the North Portico in 2007, symbolizing the nation’s commitment to combating the epidemic. This tradition, initiated by White House aide Steven M. Levine, has continued through multiple administrations. Since 1993, US Presidents have made official proclamations for World AIDS Day, reaffirming the commitment to fighting the disease.

“Let Communities Lead”: A Call to Action for 2023

As we approach World AIDS Day 2023, the theme “Let Communities Lead” emphasizes the indispensable role of community-led organizations in the HIV response. Despite the progress, communities face challenges such as funding shortages, policy and regulatory hurdles, capacity constraints, and crackdowns on civil society and human rights. Removing these obstacles is crucial for advancing HIV prevention and treatment services globally.

The UNAIDS Executive Director, Winnie Byanyima, asserts, “The end of AIDS is possible, it is within our grasp.” The call to action extends beyond December 1st, with activities building up throughout November and echoing throughout December and beyond. The release of the World AIDS Day Report, titled “Let Communities Lead,” in late November, emphasizes the critical role of communities in ending AIDS as a public health threat by 2030.

Also Read: ‘Dallas Buyers Club’: How Stigma and Profits Worsened the AIDS Crisis