25th Anniversary International AIDS Candlelight Memorial

Today Belize participated for the first time in the International AIDS Candlelight Memorial due to the hard work of this year's co-coordinators, none other than our very own Anthony and 2nd year PC volunteer Kimberly! They both worked really hard for the past two months to put together this event, contacting organizations throughout the city that work with HIV/AIDS and marketing the event through media. In fact, Anthony made his national radio debut on Love FM when he was called into the station this morning for an impromptu interview which aired during the mid-day news.

Anthony mentioned in his welcome address some of the information that brought this event to fruition; The International AIDS Candlelight Memorial commemorates 25 years of awareness and activism this year. The historic Candlelight Memorial is among the world’s oldest and largest campaigns against the disease. Since 1983, the event has been meant to honor those lost or affected by the AIDS pandemic, demonstrate support for people living with the disease, and educate, serve, and mobilize community based responses to HIV/AIDS.

On May 18th, The International AIDS Candlelight Memorial was held in more than 100 countries worldwide, making it the largest grassroots AIDS event ever. Caring people from around the world – from Argentina to Zambia - join to remember those who have died of AIDS and support those who are living with HIV/AIDS.

Belize's memorial was held at the YWCA in Belize City and was supported by the National AIDS Commission, Peace Corps Belize, UniBAM, Hand in Hand Ministries, and the local Scout troop. Speakers shared their wisdom on the impact of AIDS in Belize and called everyone to action in the fight against this disease and the stigma associated with it, particularly in the country.

Ribbons and candles for the event

Co-coordinators Kimberly and Anthony

Welcome address

Singing Belize's National Anthem

Find out more at www.candlelightmemorial.org