Los Angeles Landmarks Turn Red for World AIDS Day 2024
On Sunday, some of Los Angeles’ most iconic landmarks will glow red, paying tribute to World AIDS Day and emphasizing the urgent need to end the HIV epidemic. This year’s theme, "Collective Action: Sustain and Accelerate HIV Progress," underscores the importance of united efforts in combating this global health challenge.
About 52,000 individuals living with HIV call Los Angeles County home, with an estimated 1,400 new infections reported annually. The county health department stresses the disproportionate impact on gay men, African Americans, Latinos, and transgender individuals.
"This year’s theme of collective action is central to the spirit of World AIDS Day, and to our goals," stated Barbara Ferrer, director of the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (DPH). "We are committed to working with multisector partners to end transmission of HIV and create a future where every person affected by HIV receives the support they need."
To mark the occasion, a series of captivating displays will illuminate the night. From the Paramount Pictures Water Tower to the Petersen Automotive Museum, the Rose Bowl Stadium, and even the historic Queen Mary, these prominent locations will shine a vibrant red, symbolizing solidarity and remembrance.
The DPH spearheads a comprehensive "Ending the HIV Epidemic Initiative," offering over 35 HIV-related programs and collaborating with numerous organizations for outreach, testing, treatment, and support services. Individuals seeking information and resources can visit getprotectedla.com as part of these efforts.
Beyond the luminous displays, various events throughout Los Angeles County will commemorate World AIDS Day. The Wall las Memorías, a nonprofit, will host its Noche de las Memorías, honoring the lives lost to AIDS at Lincoln Park.
Six powerful murals depicting life with AIDS in the Latino community and two granite panels bearing over 1,600 names of those who have lost their battle with the disease, form a poignant centerpiece.
The somber evening will commence at 4:30 pm, with the lighting of 3,000 candles around the lake, followed by poignant testimonials from families at 6:30 pm and a moving fireworks display at 7:30 pm.
David Archuleta, the beloved singer and 2008 American Idol runner-up, will grace the stage with a performance at 7 pm, sharing his powerful journey of self-discovery, identity, and faith, potentially inspiring young Latinos seeking to live authentically.
“Latinos are impacted by AIDS more than any other group in L.A. County and the nation,” The Wall las Memorías emphasized.
In West Hollywood, two noteworthy events will take place on Sunday. STORIES:The AIDS Monument and APLA Health, alongside the City of West Hollywood, invite the community to attend a World AIDS Day event at the West Hollywood Park Aquatic and Recreation Center Respite Deck. Afterward, The Lavender Effect will host the launch and reception for the "Young City at War" Exhibit at West Hollywood Park.
This thought-provoking exhibition, displayed beneath the Grand Staircase, delves into the stories of West Hollywood during the harrowing AIDS epidemic of the 80s and 90s, highlighting the remarkable resilience and solidarity of a diverse community. Celebrating those who fought tirelessly at the forefront and showcasing the enduring power of community serves as a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle against AIDS.
Twenty-four years ago, the world began acknowledging HIV’s devastating impact on December 1, adate now known as World AIDS Day. This day fosters awareness, honors progress, and underscores the importance of supporting affected communities.
Tragically, millions continue to be affected by this global health crisis. Globally, an estimated 88.4 million people have contracted HIV since the epidemic’s emergence in the early 1980s. Nearly 40 million individuals worldwide currently live with HIV, and over 42 million have succumbed to AIDS-related illnesses since the epidemic’s outbreak.
In 2023 alone, approximately 630,000 people died from HIV globally, and an estimated 1.3 million new infections occurred, highlighting the urgent need for continued action and support.
## Landmarks Light Up for World AIDS Day: An Interview with Dr. Emily Carter
**World Today News** sat down with Dr. Emily Carter, leading HIV researcher and Director of the [Insert Name of relevant Center/Organization] at [Insert University/Institution], to discuss the significance of Los Angeles landmarks turning red for World AIDS Day 2024, the fight against the HIV epidemic both locally and globally, and the importance of collective action.
**WTN:** dr. Carter, Los Angeles landmarks like the Paramount Water tower and the Rose Bowl will be illuminated red for World AIDS Day. What message does this send, and why is this visual display impactful?
**Dr.carter:** This is a powerful symbol of solidarity and remembrance. It shines a light on the ongoing struggle against HIV, while honoring the lives lost and those living with the virus.
Turning iconic landmarks red serves as a reminder to the community that HIV is still a pressing issue, demanding our attention and collective efforts. It also sparks important conversations and encourages people to learn more about HIV prevention, testing, and treatment.
**WTN:** Los Angeles County faces a notable HIV burden.How has the epidemic impacted the community, and what are some unique challenges faced locally?
**Dr. Carter:** As the statistics show, HIV disproportionately impacts specific groups within Los Angeles county, including gay men, African Americans, Latinos, and transgender individuals. This highlights the need to address social determinants of health and ensure equitable access to healthcare,prevention services,and culturally competent care.
Stigma and discrimination remain significant barriers to testing and treatment, notably within these marginalized communities. Overcoming these hurdles requires culturally sensitive outreach,education,and comprehensive support services.
**WTN:** This year’s World AIDS Day theme is “Collective Action: Sustain and Accelerate HIV Progress.” What does this mean for the local and global fight against HIV?
**Dr. Carter:** This theme recognizes that ending the HIV epidemic is a shared duty.
It takes a multi-pronged approach involving government agencies, healthcare providers, community organizations, researchers, and individuals.We need to strengthen partnerships, share resources, and work together to implement effective prevention strategies, expand access to testing and treatment, and combat stigma and discrimination.
Globally, this means supporting initiatives in low- and middle-income countries, ensuring access to affordable medication and treatment programs, and fostering research and development for a cure.
**WTN:** What specific actions can individuals take to contribute to the collective effort to end HIV?
**Dr. Carter:**
* **Get Tested:** Knowing your status is the first step towards prevention and treatment.
* **Practice Safer Sex:** use condoms consistently and correctly.
* **Talk Openly:** break the silence surrounding HIV and encourage dialog within your community.
* **Support Organizations:** Donate to or volunteer for organizations working to combat HIV.
* **Educate Yourself:** Learn about HIV transmission, prevention, and treatment options.
* **Advocate for Change:** Speak out against stigma and discrimination, and support policies that promote public health.
**WTN:** Thank you for your time and insights, Dr. Carter.
**Dr. Carter:** It’s my pleasure. Let’s all work together to create a world free from HIV.
