Press Centre
Media Tools
Click here for some guidelines on writing effective press releases and media advisories for your local Candlelight Memorial event. Templates are also available to download.
Candlelight in the News
Miss Universe Launches 2002-2003 AIDS Candlelight Memorial Campaign, 20 May 2002
Miss Universe to Lead Worldwide AIDS Memorial, 16 May 2002
Candlelight Memorial Facts
Quick Stats
- Began in 1983 in San Francisco and New York
- Currently, there are more than 1500 Communities in 85 countries
- The largest grassroots AIDS event in the world
- More than 1 million individuals participating in 2002
The purpose is to remember those who have passed away, support those who are living, educate the public and community leaders, raise awareness and decrease stigma related to HIV/AIDS.
The History of the "Memorial"
The original International AIDS Candlelight Memorial was held in 1983, when the cause of AIDS was unknown and no more than a few thousand AIDS deaths had been recorded. The organizers wished to honor the memory of those lost to AIDS and to demonstrate support for those living with AIDS. That remains the focus of the event today.
Since 1983 the pandemic has claimed more than 22 million lives, with about 34 million now living with HIV and AIDS. As AIDS continues to ravage communities around the world, the Candlelight has become a way for communities to take action by publicly mourning loved ones lost to AIDS, and by strengthening local and national commitments to fighting the pandemic. In small communities, it can help to increase awareness, understanding, volunteerism, and fundraising. In large cities, it brings together a diverse spectrum of people who care about AIDS. In all cases, the event creates a sense of global solidarity, and generates worldwide media attention.
Purpose
The International AIDS Candlelight Memorial acts as a catalyst for communities around the world to begin talking about HIV/AIDS in their community. It is a unique event that promotes discussion, education, awareness and action.
The International AIDS Candlelight Memorial have four main objectives:
- To honor the memory of those lost to AIDS
- To show support for those living with HIV and AIDS
- To raise community awareness and decrease stigma related to HIV/AIDS
- To mobilize community involvement in the fight against HIV/AIDS
HIV/AIDS Resources
Global Health Council
AIDS Education Global Information Systems (AEGIS)
Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS)
United States Agency for International Development (USAID)
