Weekend vigil will remember, honour those impacted by AIDS

A vigil will be held this weekend to remember and honour those who have been impacted by AIDS and AIDS-related illnesses.

The free event is scheduled for Saturday July 6 at The Klub 2SLGBTQIA+ Community Centre starting at 6 p.m.

This year’s theme is “we’re still here" to counter the misconception that HIV is an issue of the past.

“As a queer, racialized, immigrant person living with HIV in Sault Ste. Marie, it is an honour and a privilege to be a part of this day of reflection and celebration of all communities impacted by the HIV/AIDS virus”, (Pedro) Caio Schuurhuis, the interim team lead at Ontario Aboriginal HIV AIDS Strategy (Oahas) in Sault Ste. Marie, says in a news release. 

“Systemic racism that is rooted in colonialism, creates barriers for Indigenous people and People of Colour in accessing HIV prevention, diagnosis, and treatment services.”

In a news release, organizers say the rate of new HIV infections in Canada is higher among Indigenous people compared to the general population. 

“In 2020, an estimated 15.2 new infections per 100,000 Indigenous individuals were reported, while the rate was four new infections per 100,000 Canadians overall,” they said.

HIV and AIDS Resource Program (HARP)’s support service outreach worker, Lucia Luciani, says although HIV/AIDS were once considered death sentences, medical advancements have made it possible to live a fulsome life without fear of passing on the virus.

“From its very beginning, the AIDS Vigil in Sault Ste. Marie has been a place where the HIV/AIDS community comes together alongside friends, family, allies and beyond,” Luciani added. 

“It is one of the most meaningful events, dedicated to honouring those who have lost their lives to the disease while also celebrating the strength and resilience of those living with HIV.”

In Canada, an estimated 62,790 people are living with HIV. Of those diagnosed, 87 per cent are receiving treatment and 95 per cent of those on treatment have achieved viral suppression.