World National AIDS Day

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COLUMBUS, Miss. (WCBI)-December 1st marks the 23rd Anniversary of World AIDS Day.

Approximately 34 million people now live with HIV and AIDS and 1.2 million of them live in the United States.

“Getting to Zero”, is the theme for this year’s World AIDS Day. It is a campaign that is helping in the fight against AIDS. Throughout the United States many will recognize Saturday’s awareness in different ways. For some Columbus organizations, it was all about making an imprint for generations.

By planting a magnolia tree many hope it will bring awareness to HIV and AIDS. As well as supporting those who live with the virus everyday. And remember those who have passed away.

“This is an epidemic that we are experiencing and the more people who know their status the better,” says Whitney Washington.

“There are so many people out there that are victims of the illness and they don’t know,” says Monique Montgomery.

Kimberly Washington, an active member in The Columbus Lowndes chapter of Delta Sigma Theta, felt honored when asked to help spread awareness. She hopes other students her age will do the same and get involved.

“I’m a college student and maybe younger people who see me and see what we are trying do,” says Washington.

“Today they just challenged every chapter in the nation of Delta Sigma Theta sorority to take an active movement and not just be a monument,” says Montgomery.

The AIDS virus has no descrimination and can affect anyone. Learning about the disease and the proper preventions can go a long way in the fight against AIDS.

The Sally Kate Winters family hosted today’s event. The magnolia tree that is planted at the River walk was donated by the city of Columbus.

Categories: Local News

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