Join Gilead Sciences, Relationship Unleashed, Tristate Black Pride, Cathedral Foundation, and Cathedral of Praise Church of Memphis, Inc. for a day of Interfaith Worship, Community Conversation, and Dinner on Tuesday, August 27, 2024 from 6:00PM until 8:00PM CST at Cathedral of Praise Church of Memphis, TN 38111 (inside Buntyn Presbyterian Church).
This event is being held in observance of National Faith HIV/AIDS Awareness Day. National Faith HIV/AIDS Awareness Day was first observed on August 27, 2017. It was established to recognize the critical role that faith communities play in HIV prevention, education, and support, and to mobilize these communities to take action against the HIV/AIDS epidemic.
Why is National Faith HIV/AIDS Awareness day important in Memphis? According to data from the Tennessee Department of Health, HIV rates in Shelby County have increased 36% since 2018. Syphilis rates have increased by 100%. Between 2018 and 2023, HIV rates among those between the ages of 15 to 19 years old increased by 40%. That same age group saw a 150% increase in syphilis rates, according to the health department. https://wreg.com/news/local/cases-of-hiv-syphilis-continue-to-skyrocket-in-shelby-county/
Overall, National Faith HIV/AIDS Awareness Day leverages the influence and reach of faith communities to address the HIV/AIDS epidemic in a compassionate and effective manner.
- Engagement of Faith Communities: It recognizes the crucial role that faith communities play in addressing public health issues, including HIV/AIDS. These communities can provide support, education, and advocacy, reaching individuals who may not be engaged through other channels.
- Combating Stigma and Discrimination: Faith-based initiatives can help reduce the stigma and discrimination often associated with HIV/AIDS. By promoting understanding and compassion, faith communities can create more accepting environments for those affected by the disease.
- Education and Awareness: This day provides an opportunity to educate people about HIV prevention, testing, and treatment. Faith leaders can disseminate accurate information, countering myths and misconceptions about the virus.
- Support and Compassion: It highlights the importance of providing emotional, spiritual, and practical support to individuals living with HIV/AIDS and their families. Faith communities often offer counseling, healthcare services, and other forms of assistance.
- Advocacy and Policy Change: The day encourages faith leaders and communities to advocate for policies and programs that support HIV/AIDS prevention and care. This can lead to increased funding, better healthcare access, and improved services for those affected by HIV/AIDS.
- Community Mobilization: It fosters collaboration among different faith groups, healthcare providers, and community organizations. This collective effort can enhance the overall impact of HIV/AIDS initiatives and reach more people in need.
Tell a friend or two and come enjoy an evening of education, and love. Because whether you know it or not “Advocacy is the Church’s Business!”
