Miss Universe Launches 2002-2003 AIDS Candlelight Memorial Campaign
Campaign Will Focus on Youth and Stigma

San Juan, Puerto Rico, May 20 - Miss Universe 2001, Denise Quiñones August, a native of Puerto Rico, officially launched the 20th Annual International AIDS Candlelight Memorial Campaign today. Quiñones is the official spokeswoman for the Memorial, in which communities around the world join together in remembrance of those who have passed from AIDS. This year's memorial, which took place yesterday, was the largest in history; more than 1,500 communities in 85 countries participated.

"Ms. Quiñones has been an active and forceful champion for HIV/AIDS prevention during her reign as Miss Universe," says Dr. Nils Daulaire, President and CEO of the Global Health Council, the organization that coordinates the worldwide event. "Her ability to reach out to young people about the dangers of HIV and AIDS is helping to combat the spread of the disease in communities around the world, and we are honored to join with her in launching next year's Candlelight Memorial Campaign."

Each year the Campaign promotes a specific theme to help guide the communities in their efforts. This year's campaign will focus on youth and stigma. "The International AIDS Candlelight Memorial Campaign gives us a chance to show the world that we are part of a global community," said Quinones. "It provides an important opportunity to teach tolerance - especially to our young people -- of people who are suffering from AIDS."

Every Miss Universe has the job of traveling the world to speak on behalf HIV/AIDS awareness. Part of her duties includes being the spokesperson for the International AIDS Candlelight Memorial Campaign. In addition to launching this year's Campaign, while in San Juan Quiñones joined the 79 delegates competing for the 2002 crown in the local observance of the Memorial. Over 500 people attended the candle lighting ceremony to remember and support those whose lives have touched by this pandemic.

Participation in the International AIDS Candlelight Memorial increased by 200% this year, and is expected to grow to include over 3000 communities next year.