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WNCAP called and asked me to be their Honorary Chairperson for their Raise Your Hand Auction this year and I could not say no. As a past counselor I have witnessed countless stories of how HIV/AIDS alter lives. In the face of the largeness I am both honored and humbled, to serve in this small way. When HIV/AIDS entered our field of vision in the 80’s, we had to reconfigure as a nation, as a community and as individuals. We had to figure out different ways of being in the world. In 2008 we are still figuring it out, how to live and how to love. Yet our grief is still palpable as we grapple with those we have lost. We watched the celebrities who perished on the forefront: Arthur Ashe, Ryan White, Rock Hudson, Tim Richmond, Perry Ellis and the list goes on… But in our homes and neighborhoods there have been countless others: friends and family members. What this disease has taught us is that it could be anyone of us. I accept this role with a startling sobriety because I know my face represents one of the fastest growing demographics infected by HIV/AIDS, black women. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) Black women accounted for 67 percent of all new AIDS cases among women and white females accounted for 15 percent. Black youth demonstrate the largest single group of young people affected by HIV. If we believe we have no future, we act and live as if there are no consequences. We must not avert our eyes. We must not shake our heads in denial or trust our lovers blindly. Our bodies matter. We matter. No matter our color, religion, sexual preference or gender we must rise, raise the awareness level so those living with the disease are afforded the treatment, dignity and love they deserve and we must keep on working until everyone understands that this disease is preventable and need not be transmitted. We must educate, inform and empower. As a poet I encourage all to raise their voice for a healthier and more compassionate way of being in this world. As we rise the whole world rises with us. As a city, county, state and world we can do better as we open our eyes and extend our hands in service as we offer hope. We are our greatest resource. Give to WNCAP through time, talent and funds.
"Mosaic", by Glenis Redmond
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