Tag Archives: World Aids Day

Greene County Alumnae Chapter, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. supports end to HIV stigma

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In observance of World AIDS Day, December 1, 2020, the Greene County Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated placed red bows on the poles around the courthouse square in Eutaw. The members also displayed a “Rock The Ribbon” banner and yard signs in the communities to promote greater awareness about HIV prevention and treatment. This pandemic friendly option serves as a reminder to end HIV-related stigma.
The first World AIDS Day, designated by the World Health Organization and supported by the United Nations, was observed in 1998. “Ending the HIV/AIDS Epidemic: Resilience and Impact.” is the theme for 2020. The goal is to focus on HIV prevention, treatment, and to end HIV stigma.
Isaac N. Atkins is the Chapter President, Nancy Cole is the Chapter Vice-President, and Phillis Belcher is the Chairperson for the International Awareness and Involvement Committee.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that there are about 1.2 million people with HIV in the United States. While there is no cure for HIV, there is effective treatment to have the virus under control (viral suppression; amount of HIV in the body that is undetectable).
People with HIV who are aware of their status, are on medicine (antiretroviral therapy) and have their virus under control, can live healthy lives. Additionally, people who are at risk for HIV infection can benefit from the use of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), as well as by giving medicine used to treat HIV to HIV-negative people to reduce the risk of transmission.
Fewer Black Americans who could benefit from the use of PrEP are receiving it. Therefore, efforts are needed to increase knowledge of status and to improve the use of prevention efforts.

Greene County Deltas observe World Aids Day; Commission Chairperson signs Proclamation

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Observing the signing of the World Aids Day Proclamation for Greene County by Commission Chairperson Tennyson Smith are L to R seated: Nancy Cole and Isaac Atkins. Standing L to R: Johnni Strode Morning, Andrea Perry, Alfretta Crawford and Carol P. Zippert.

The Greene County Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., in conjunction with the Greene County Commission, observed World Aids Day in Greene County, December 1, 2018. In its meeting held Monday, November 26, 2018, the Commission approved the proposed proclamation and proclaimed Dec. 1 as World Aids Day. The official signing was held Friday, November 30, 2018. World Aids Day began 30 years ago on December 1, 1988, when the world health ministers called for a spirit of social tolerance and greater awareness of HIV Internationally. World Aids Day continues to be an important way to celebrate the extraordinary advances we have made in the battle against HIV and to remind Greene County residents and people everywhere that HIV has not gone away. In keeping with the 2018 World Aids Day theme Know Your Status members of the Greene County Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. encourage those living with HIV to ensure that they are linked to quality care and prevention services.