For Immediate Release
December 1, 2009
 
Contact: Jody Couser, Press Officer
pressofficer@democratsabroad.org
 
International Chair and Vice Chair of Democrats Abroad Statement in Recognition of World AIDS Day
 
Geneva, Switzerland & Manchester, England– Today, December 1st, people in the United States and across the globe recognize World AIDS Day, which was established to raise awareness and support for those living with HIV/AIDS and to commemorate those who have lost their lives. To honor this day, Democrats Abroad International Chair Christine Schon Marques, an American living abroad in Switzerland and Vice Chair Robert Checkoway, an American living abroad in England, released the following statement:
 
“Today, we remember those whose lives were taken by HIV/AIDS, and we commit our support to those across the globe who are still fighting the battle.
 
“In the United States alone, there are more than 1 million people living with HIV/AIDS, and more than 33 million people around the world.  With so many people affected, we must act to improve treatment and prevention.
 
“Since taking office, President Obama has made critical investments in combating HIV/AIDS.  More than half a million Americans will now receive medical treatment and support services under the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Treatment Extension Act signed into law this October," Christine Schon Marques said.

“The President and Congress also took an important step towards reducing fear and discrimination by ending the HIV entry ban, which prohibited those with HIV from entering the United States.  This was a major step forward and long overdue.
 
“We have made significant progress since the first World AIDS Day in 1988—increasing prevention, improving treatment and reducing discrimination.  But much work remains to be done.  Today and every day we stand with those that continue the fight against HIV/AIDS," Robert Checkoway said.
 
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