World AIDS Day, December 1, offers an annual opportunity for people around the globe to unite in remembrance of those lost to AIDS and rededication to addressing the challenges which HIV thrusts upon us. Here in Austin there will be several observances for people to join in common cause against this disease.
The HIV Wellness Center will hold an “Open House and Practitioner Appreciation” on Friday from 11am-2pm. They invite everyone to come by and remember and honor their friends and loved ones lost to or affected by HIV/AIDS, or who are dedicated to helping people living with HIV/AIDS. In particular, they want to recognize the many “alternative therapy” professionals who volunteer their time to improving the well-being of HWC clients through massage, yoga, acupuncture, reiki, and shiatsu. Keynote speaker Carolyn Parker, Ph.D., director of the Texas AIDS Network, will address political and social trends at 12:30. For information, call 467-0088.
The faith community will gather for a “Service of Remembrance and Hope” at St. James Episcopal Church, 3701 East MLK Blvd., at 6pm. Music, readings, and prayer will memorialize and celebrate the lives of those we have lost to the epidemic. The service is organized by the Interfaith Care Alliance, which fields care teams to provide assistance to individuals and families with HIV. For information, call 459-5883.
Later, observing its 10th anniversary will be “Body Count,” a
performance piece created by Sally Jacques. This dramatic evolution involving myriad artists and performers will be at Barton Springs Pool on Friday evening at 6:30. For information, call 444-1672.
This article appears in November 24 • 2000.