(OTTAWA) December 1, 2015 -World AIDS Day is dedicated to showing support for those living with HIV/AIDS, while also commemorating those who have passed away. On this day, organizations from around the world unite to raise awareness in an effort to help stop the spread of the virus. In Canada, December 1st also marks the start of Aboriginal AIDS Awareness Week.
“While tremendous medical advancements have been made in the fight against HIV/AIDS, the Green Party recognizes that more must be done in order to meet UNAIDS goals and provide better access to necessary medical and social resources,” said Elizabeth May, Leader of the Green Party of Canada and MP (Saanich - Gulf Islands).
According to UNAIDS, in 2014, an estimated 36.9 million people around the world were living with HIV, while there were approximately 1.2 million AIDS-related deaths.
In Canada, an estimated 71,300 people are living with HIV, 6,380 of whom are Aboriginal people. UNAIDS goals include reducing HIV transmission by 50%, eliminating new infections among children, and reaching 15 million people with antiretroviral treatment by 2015.
“The Green Party is committed to preventing the spread of HIV/AIDS and better managing its impacts, which includes reducing the stigma associated with the virus, and providing universal access to low-cost medication,” May concluded.
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For additional information or to arrange an interview, contact:
Julian Morelli
Director of Communications
Green Party of Canada
cell: (613) 614 4916
office: (613) 562 4916 (224)
julian.morelli@greenparty.ca