EOW of ICLM Day Event

End of Week Report

International AIDS Candlelight Memorial Day Event Date : 21/5/2023

Location : Inya Lake Hotel and Virtual (Zoom)

HIV/TB Agency, Information and Service Activity (AIS) organized the International AIDS Candlelight Memorial Day Event with the collaboration of MPG and MINA at Inya Lake Hotel on May 21, 2023. The event was attended by a total of nearly 80 individuals in person, including representatives from various organizations, community networks, and religious leaders. Additionally, about 100 participants joined the event via Zoom. The presence of esteemed guests and active participation from the attendees made the event a success.

Objective

To provide a platform for knowledge sharing, advocacy, and solidarity-building among communities affected by HIV/AIDS
Raise awareness about HIV/AIDS
To reduce stigma associated with HIV/AIDS
To strengthen support systems for individuals living with HIV
To foster a sense of love and solidarity within communities.
To promote understanding and empathy towards those affected by HIV/AIDS
To encourage collaboration and cooperation among organizations, community networks, and religious leaders in addressing the challenges related to HIV/AIDS
To contribute to the ongoing fight against HIV/AIDS

We express our gratitude to all participants, facilitators, and organizations involved in making this event possible. Their dedication and commitment contribute significantly to the ongoing fight against HIV/AIDS and the promotion of love and solidarity within communities.

So What:

The International AIDS Candlelight Memorial event was organized with a comprehensive agenda consisting of twelve programs aimed at addressing various aspects related to HIV/AIDS, stigma, discrimination, and support for individuals living with HIV. Distinguished speakers, including Dr. Rangaiyan Gurumurthy, the Country Director of UNAIDS, who delivered the opening speech. Dr. Gurumurthy emphasized the significance of the event in acknowledging the progress made in the fight against HIV/AIDS and the ongoing commitment to support individuals living with the disease.

The event brought together religious leaders from different faith traditions, including Buddhism, Christianity, Islam, and Hinduism, who offered prayers to commemorate those who have lost their lives to AIDS. These prayers reflected a shared commitment to compassion, unity, and support for those affected by the disease and their loved ones. The religious leaders’ participation emphasized the importance of community, love, and understanding in addressing the impact of AIDS on individuals, families, and society as a whole.

At the event, a special video was shown. It had the CNC leaders and MPG staff members. They prayed sincerely for the people who sadly lost their lives to AIDS. The CNC leader led the prayers with respect and understanding, showing deep sadness and comforting the families and loved ones who are going through this difficult time. The video reminded everyone about how AIDS affects many people and communities, and it reminded us of the importance of support, understanding, and standing up for what’s right. The CNC leader and MPG staff members showed their strong dedication to remembering and honoring those who passed away from this disease. Their prayers were filled with kindness and a shared hope for a world where no more lives are lost to AIDS. This emotional moment brought everyone together, inspiring them to continue fighting against HIV/AIDS and to offer unwavering support to those affected, creating a caring and understanding community.

The participants of the International AIDS Candlelight Memorial experienced transformative changes during the event. Through educational sessions and personal interactions, they gained heightened awareness of HIV/AIDS and became informed advocates in the fight against the disease. The event also fostered empathy as participants listened to personal stories and engaged in meaningful conversations, leading to a reduced stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS. This empathy, combined with a newfound understanding, resulted in a greater acceptance and rejection of discriminatory attitudes and behaviors.

Additionally, the event facilitated personal growth and empowerment for the participants. By connecting with others, sharing experiences, and learning from the journeys of individuals living with HIV/AIDS, they discovered their own resilience and strength. This personal growth empowered them to challenge societal norms, advocate for change, and actively contribute to creating more inclusive and supportive environments. The event also facilitated the formation of supportive networks, as participants connected with like-minded individuals, strengthening the collective efforts in combating HIV/AIDS.

In summary, the International AIDS Candlelight Memorial served as a catalyst for transformative changes among the participants. Their increased awareness, empathy, personal growth, and commitment to action positioned them as empowered agents in the fight against HIV/AIDS. Through rejecting stigma, advocating for change, and fostering supportive environments, they demonstrated their dedication to creating a more inclusive and compassionate society.