We are commemorating World AIDS Day today, as you all will know (the media hype makes it hard to miss). This hype is certainly a good thing since it is a health and social issue that cannot be ignored. It's important for us in South Africa and throughout the whole world to take note of the risks and dangers, but also the stories of hope, care and compassion associated with this disease. I'm thinking about the 'sub-text' underlying the commemoration of World Aids Day - what is it that we really should be thinking about when HIV and AIDS is at stake, apart from the obvious do's and don'ts surrounding AIDS?
Respect is the first word that comes to my mind - no discriminating acts or behaviour towards any individual, HIV positive or negative. And with that respecting the rights of others - whether I think they are deserving of specific rights or not. Tolerance is another value that correlates to respect - accepting other's ideas and behaviour, even when it differs completely from my own. But with respect and tolerance comes accountability - really accepting responsibility for, and being accountable for my own actions - the good, the bad and ugly.
For me World AIDS Day is also about getting involved, not just today, but every other day of the year, and not only concerning HIV and AIDS, but getting involved with vulnerable people in my community - identifying (and hopefully addressing some of)the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of those around me.
My plan of action is therefore to Learn, Speak and Give - maybe starting with the No Violence Against Women and Children campaign and World Aids Day, but not stopping there.
What does World Aids Day mean to you?
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