Congresswoman Matsui Honors World AIDS Day

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Tuesday, December 1, 2009

CONTACT: MARA LEE

(202) 225-7163

In honor of World AIDS Day, which is being recognized today in countries all across the globe, Congresswoman Doris Matsui (D-CA) released the following statement:

"Each year, this day is dedicated to raising awareness of the AIDS pandemic caused by the spread of HIV. Today, on the 21st annual World AIDS Day, we take time to remember those who have been lost to this terrible disease and to honor those who continue to battle HIV/AIDS. There is no doubt that the HIV/AIDS epidemic has touched every corner of our globe, and we must continue doing all that we can to limit its toll."

"Although research and treatment have come a great distance over the last twenty years, only through education and raising awareness can we expect to stop the spread of this horrible epidemic. We must not allow any stigma or taboo to keep us from discussing HIV and AIDS prevention and treatment, for knowledge remains our best weapon in this battle. Today, I join with my colleagues in Congress and with people around the world as we recommit ourselves to eradicating HIV/AIDS at a local level and on the worldwide stage."

World AIDS Day is observed every year on December 1st. The day provides governments, national AIDS programs, faith organizations, community groups, and individuals with an opportunity to raise awareness and focus attention on the global HIV/AIDS crisis. More than 33 million people currently live with HIV, and two million AIDS-related deaths were reported around the world last year.

Sacramento's World AIDS Day service will be held Tuesday, December 1st at 6:00 PM at the Tower Theater, which is located at 2508 Land Park Drive (off of Broadway). For more information, please contact: Jon Benorden, Chair, Sacramento World AIDS Day, at (916) 914-6246 or via email at jbenorden@caresclinic.org.

Additional information about World AIDS Day and about what Sacramentans can do to help can be found at www.aids.gov/world-aids-day/