NEWS RELEASE
HIV/AIDS RESOURCES AND COMMUNITY HEALTH
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HIV/AIDS Resources and Community Health (ARCH) invites the community to participate in AIDS Awareness Week from Nov. 24 until Dec. 1.
The week will host a wide array of activities, including HIV & the Law 101 workshop, drag bingo at Wellington Brewery, an annual arts & culture evening called a Night of Red, a virtual watch party of legendary show called Pose, HIV self-testing kit pick-up, a collective art project called "stitchin' grief," and World AIDS Day Vigil.
"The COVID-19 pandemic is threatening access to HIV prevention, testing, treatment and care. And without strategies to meet these needs, we may see a resurgence of HIV that would threaten our public health response to COVID-19," states CATIE.
“This year is especially important, while our communities continue to navigate complex layers of grief, isolation, health struggles, and questions about the future; all while being reminded of those who we've lost over the months, years, and decades gone by, and how much we've all experienced change over the last year and a half. We process how the impacts of the pandemic have changed us individually and collectively. What ways did our communities find to grieve against all odds before, and what can we learn from them about how we continue to navigate these trying times? How might the ways we come together to grieve, grow, and heal look different in the coming months and years?” states Jasper Smith, Education Coordinator at ARCH. Join us for engaging discussions, interactive digital community art displays, and a community gathering to find new ways forward together.
The week culminates with an outdoor memorial display of candles on Wednesday, December 1 from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. ARCH invites you to join in honouring the light of those we have lost. We grieve and remember those who have touched our hearts and impacted our community. You are welcome to come and light a candle, share a moment of silence or share a memory with those in attendance. There will be hot beverages and cookies available outside. There will also be a space inside to share space, connect and reflect.
If you are unable to attend but still wish to have a candlelit in honour of friends or family, you are more than welcome to email Sarah at manager@archguelph. We will ensure a candle is lit on your behalf.
For full scope of the events please visit www.archguelph.ca & RSVP to events through Eventbrite.
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