Hilo, Hawaii
VIDEO by David Corrigan
The Hawaii Island HIV/AIDS Foundation hosted a Memorial Service at Hilo’s Liliuokalani Park on Tuesday, in observance of the annual World AIDS Day.
Big Island residents joined together at the Sumo Ring at the scenic park just before sunset, to remember those affected by the disease. The mayor’s office also proclaimed December 1st to be World AIDS Day in Hawaii County.
The gathering was just one of many Special events held statewide in recognition of this worldwide awareness day that focuses on the HIV pandemic.
“World AIDS Day is the only international day of coordinated action to address the HIV epidemic,” said Peter Whiticar, chief of the STD/AIDS Prevention Branch for the DOH, in a written release. “It is an opportunity for residents of Hawaii to learn how the epidemic affects not only people living in countries abroad hardest hit by this disease, but also how our friends, neighbors and co-workers right here in Hawaii are impacted.”
The Hawaii Department of Health says that each year, World AIDS Day strengthens global efforts to address the challenges presented by the HIV/AIDS pandemic around the world. The DOH says that since 1988, December 1 has been a day of compassion, hope, solidarity and understanding about HIV/AIDS.
