Isaac Henry from C2EA/Dallas

Hundreds of people living with HIV/AIDS from around the country meet up in Washington, D.C. to lobby Congress—about legislation that, for the first time in eight years, actually has a chance of being signed into law.

Top priorities this year include lifting the ban on federal funding for syringe exchange and pushing the Early Treatment for HIV Act (ETHA).

Activists and advocates aren’t just going to sit back and wait for politicians to do the right thing. The rally at Freedom Plaza was called “We’re Watching—And Tired Of Waiting!” dozens of activists from throughout the country are holding leaders accountable for ending the epidemic in both Washington, D.C. and throughout the country. The diverse group of speakers addressed the need for the involvement of people living with AIDS in crafting a National AIDS Strategy and a D.C. AIDS strategy. The rally was organized by the Campaign to End AIDS, DC Fights Back, and NAPWA.

“We need our elected officials to hear us loud and clear that we’re going to hold them accountable,” said Housing Works National Field Organizer Larry Bryant.

The rally also promoted NAPWA’s efforts to renew the Denver Principles. The Denver Principles Project is an effort by NAPWA to empower and connect people living with HIV/AIDS. The movement renews the Denver Principles that were created 25 years ago by HIV-positive activists who demanded respect, dignity and a say in their health care. The Denver Principles Project will combine individual voices of PWAs to form a collective and powerful single voice.