Since 1988, World AIDS Day has been observed on Dec. 1 in order to remember those lost to AIDS and to promote awareness of a disease and epidemic that have not gone away. This year, WAD will be recognized at the Wright House Wellness Center, with an open house beginning at 4pm.
A formal program will begin at 5:30pm with invocation by the Rev. David Hoster of St. George’s Episcopal Church and welcoming remarks by Congressman Lloyd Doggett. Rep. Doggett has been one of the AIDS community’s most consistent friends, thoughtfully supporting care and prevention at home and abroad. Wright House board chairman Andrew Allen will lead a candle-lighting ceremony to honor our friends and loved ones.
The Wright House is located at 4301-B N. I-35, in the beautifully restored Victorian house immediately behind St. George’s. Entry to the parking lot is actually on Ardenwood, just east of the northbound access road.
Following the Wright House observance, the annual interfaith Service of Remembrance and Hope will be held at 7pm, sponsored by Interfaith Care Alliance. This year’s service will be held at Tarrytown United Methodist Church, 2601 Exposition Blvd. (See last week’s About AIDS, Nov. 18.)
The global theme for World AIDS Day 2005 is Stop AIDS: Keep the Promise. The event is intended to remind everyone to press political leaders at every level to uphold their commitments regarding HIV/AIDS, both at home and abroad. Great promises have been made: They must be kept.
Everyone is urged to attend these two events, to call or write your various representatives, and to wear the red ribbon on Dec. 1.
Have questions about HIV or AIDS? Call the ASA Info-Line at 458-AIDS or e-mail sandy.bartlett@asaustin.org.
This article appears in November 25 • 2005.