It's World AIDS Day!

Our month long blogging campaign (SMART Youth Answers) was designed to bring information to all in honor of World AIDS Day has come to an end. BUT the information does not end here!

We will continue to keep you updated on weekly topics and issues that still should be addressed for youth (or even adults) everywhere! Knowledge is Power!

We would like to leave you with a history of World AIDS Day and how education and spreading the information is always key when working to change the world for the better.

How did it start?
The first World AIDS Day happened on December 1, 1988, and it was approved by the Global Programme on AIDS (now known as UNAIDS.)  Every year, the day has a theme that is chosen to highlight a goal or a group of people who may not receive attention on a regular basis. This year the theme is "Getting to zero: Zero new HIV infections. Zero discrimination. Zero AIDS related deaths."  

Why is it important?
Although there has been a lot of progress in the treatment options and access to prevention methods across the globe, HIV/AIDS continues to be a pandemic. We have not found a cure, we have not created a vaccine, and people are still dying. It is important to bring the world's attention to the issues facing people living with HIV/AIDS even if it is only for 1 day. 

What can I do?
The most important thing you can do is get tested. Knowing your status is a powerful thing, and it is a place to start whether it is to learn more about prevention methods or to find medical care and a supportive community if you are living with HIV/AIDS.  And people are LIVING with HIV/AIDS today. Using condoms (male or female) for EVERY sex act is another way to commit to the theme of Zero new HIV infections.  Finally, get involved!  Learn the truth about HIV/AIDS, stop stigma against people living with HIV/AIDS, donate to a local organization, or join SMART Youth! Each action you take is a powerful step towards achieving the theme of this year's World AIDS Day. If you live in NYC, come join us on Saturday, December 8th for our event in honor of World AIDS Day: Sex & Justice -- Is Your Body a Dangerous Weapon? -- flyer to be posted here tomorrow.

Thanks for reading SMART Youth Answers this month -- let us know if you have any other questions you want us to answer. You can always e-mail us at sync.nyc@gmail.com, and stay tuned!