September is fast approaching and the Stand Against AIDS caravans organizing around the country are revving with excitement. Each journey is sure to filled with new experiences, enduring survivors, and ignited passions with about 500 expected to arrive in Oxford, Mississippi, with a demand - END AIDS NOW!
Along the caravan routes and surrounding the first Presidential Debate in Oxford, The 'Stand' encourages people living with HIV/AIDS, advocates, activists, and loved ones to galvanize a national voice. As we demand our next President develop a plan to end the U.S. HIV/AIDS epidemic, affinity groups are being developed to ensure that our voices are heard. Groups representing African-Americans, Gay Men, Harm Reduction Communities, Latinos, Post Incarcerated, Southern States, Transgender Communities, Women, and Youth will all meet September 25 during the 'Stand' activities near the Oxford City Hall.
The Affinity Groups will challenge top-down decision-making and organizing by creating an inclusive environment for discussion and deliberation among various communities affected by the HIV/AIDS epidemic. The conversations among the groups will focus on four primary questions before convening the 'National Town Hall: Our Messages in a Bottle'. The four questions to ponder:
- How would a National Plan to end AIDS be relevant in your community?
- How is your community represented or underrepresented in HIV/AIDS advocacy?
- How has your community been affected by the HIV/AIDS epidemic?
- What can be done to support your further HIV/AIDS activism/advocacy as it relates to the development of a National Plan to end AIDS?
These Affinity Groups will develop communication and relationships among people beyond the 'Stand' and are sure to be instrumental in providing input on local, regional, and national discussion and planning. It is important to join a group that is best suited to you and your interests.
If you would like to organize an Affinity Group, want to know more about the Stand Against AIDS activities in Mississippi, or information on a caravan traveling near your city or town, contact The Campaign To End AIDS at info@campaigntoendaids.org or 1877-END AIDS (363-2437).