Landmark buildings across Ireland are to be lit up in red on Sunday after HIV Ireland announced the return of its annual campaign for World Aids Day.
The Glow Red campaign highlights the ongoing impact of stigma on women living with HIV and “reinforces the urgent need for awareness and understanding in combating discrimination”, the group said.
The campaign encourages landmark buildings across Ireland to light up in red, with more than 60 iconic sites including Kilkenny Castle, the Rock of Cashel and Dublin’s Convention Centre participating.
The campaign, which will feature on digital signage and social media, is led by TV presenter and activist Rebecca Tallon de Havilland.
“I am so proud of the women who have joined me for what is ordinarily a rare moment – women talking openly about their HIV status,” said Ms Tallon de Havilland.
“Each of us has a unique but familiar story to tell about our HIV journey and the judgment society so often places at the feet of women in particular,” she added.
Also featured is Manchester-based campaigner Victoria Roscow, who was diagnosed with HIV while nine weeks pregnant. Due to advances in antiretroviral medication, Ms Roscow’s son was born HIV negative, and she is unable to pass on the virus to her husband.
HIV Ireland chairman Steve Lynam said: “Stigma remains one of the most significant barriers to ending the HIV epidemic. Through Glow Red, we aim to send a powerful message of inclusion, empathy and progress for everyone affected by HIV.”
[ HIV/Aids 40 years on: The real battleground is fear and shameOpens in new window ]
The launch of the campaign coincides with the publication of HIV Ireland’s annual report for 2023 which highlights the organisation’s ongoing work to prevent HIV transmission, support people living with HIV and combat HIV-related stigma in the provision of care.
The report details key findings from research conducted last year by Elena Vaughan at the University of Galway, including that 40 per cent of healthcare workers expressed concerns about interacting with patients, such as taking blood.
“These figures demonstrate that while Ireland has made significant strides in HIV prevention, stigma continues to erode the quality of life and care for many,” HIV Ireland said.
The organisation has developed tailored services for trans communities and outreach to migrants, including more than 90 Ukrainians newly linked to care.
Reflecting on the past success of the Glow Red campaign, HIV Ireland executive director Stephen O’Hare said: “As Ireland strives to meet its 2030 goal of ending new HIV transmissions, campaigns like Glow Red remind us that stigma eradication is crucial to achieving that vision.
“HIV Ireland calls on healthcare providers, policymakers and communities to join forces in building a stigma-free future.”
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