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Statement on World AIDS Day |
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Washington, D.C.— Congressman Elijah E. Cummings (D-Md.) released the following statement in recognition of the 20th anniversary of World AIDS Day today.
“Since 1988, the world has come together to show unity and raise awareness about the deadly realities of HIV and AIDS. Communities across the globe have successfully fought to dispel many of the myths that surround the disease. It is our job to continue to combat the blinding ignorance born of racism, sexism, and homophobia that too often shroud the truth about HIV and AIDS.
“For the 33 million people who are currently struggling with HIV and AIDS, every day is ‘AIDS Day.’ Sadly, people of color suffer disproportionately. Eight out of every ten American women and children infected by the HIV virus since 1981 have been people of color and it has become the leading cause of death in young African American women.
“For those who continue to suffer and for the loved ones we have lost, we must do everything within our power to meet the goal of halting the spread of HIV and AIDS by 2015.
“We must recommit to addressing the epidemic through the four pillars of prevention, care, research and advocacy. It is only through these focused efforts that we will finally declare victory in our cause.”
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