International AIDS Candlelight Memorial (print version)

2003 Memorial
Remembering the Cause, Renewing our Commitment

"We must make people everywhere understand that the AIDS crisis is not over; that this is not about a few foreign countries, far away. This is a threat to an entire generation, that it is a threat to an entire civilization..."

- United Nations Secretary, General Kofi Annan

On 16 May 2004, thousands of individuals in more than 4,000 communities in 93 countries will participate in the world's largest and oldest annual grassroots HIV/AIDS event.

The International AIDS Candlelight Memorial is designed to honor the memory of those lost to HIV/AIDS, show support for those living with HIV/AIDS, raise awareness of HIV/AIDS, and mobilize community involvement in the fight against HIV/AIDS.

This powerful event is an ideal way to begin talking about HIV/AIDS in your community.

2004/2005 Theme
This year, we have selected a two-year theme that focuses on remembering those who have been touched by HIV/AIDS and keeping these memories alive through collective action.

The goal of this year's theme is to encourage communities to incorporate advocacy activities that extend beyond the official candlelight event. It is an opportunity to discuss the impact of HIV/AIDS within the community as well as how your community will address issues such as prevention, care, treatment, and education of the disease. This two year commitment serves to strengthen ties within the community and empower individuals to take action toward changing the face of HIV/AIDS.

2005 Poster - "Turning Remembrance Into Action"
Please click here to download this year's poster. All registered coordinators will receive multiple copies of this poster in the Coordinator's Kit.

This program is made possible by funding from:
USAID, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Ford Foundation and UNAIDS.

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