World AIDS Day

World AIDS Day

December 1st is World AIDS Day and if you only do one thing on this day, put on a red ribbon. Pin it to your jacket, your backpack or even your dog's collar. You could also donate time and money. The red ribbon is the international symbol of HIV and AIDS awareness. AIDS is short for Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome - a serious, fatal disease of the immune system.

World AIDS Day: Why You Should Wear a Ribbon

More than 35.3 million people worldwide have HIV - a serious disease that still has no cure. HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) is the virus that causes AIDS. By wearing the red ribbon, you are telling everyone that you're aware of the AIDS crisis and that you support people suffering from the disease. If people start asking you questions about the ribbon, here's what you can tell them. Explain why you're supporting people who have HIV. Explain that AIDS is a disease that does not discriminate, but its victims are discriminated against. Oh, and don't forget to add that in another 10 years, about 40 million children will be orphans because they'll lose their parents to AIDS.

World AIDS Day: The History of World AIDS Day

World AIDS Day has been around since December 1, 1988. It started as a day to share messages of hope, compassion and understanding about AIDS to the world. The organization behind World AIDS Day is the World Summit of Ministers of Health on Programmes for AIDS Prevention. World AIDS Day is honored around the world and it's the only international day that takes action against AIDS.

World AIDS Day: Show Your Support

Show your support this December 1st and pin on a red ribbon, the proceeds of which go to AIDS charities. You can get one from your local AIDS organization. Check out www.worldaidsday.org for more information.

Have Your Say

Does your school do anything for World Aids Day? How do you show your support?