Sunday 17 May marks the 26th anniversary of the International AIDS Candlelight Memorial.
The International AIDS Candlelight Memorial is among the world’s oldest movements for HIV/AIDS remembrance, awareness and community action.

The first International AIDS Candlelight Memorial was held in 1983, when the cause of AIDS was unknown and no more than a few thousand AIDS deaths had been recorded. The organisers wished to honour the memory of those lost to AIDS and to demonstrate support for those living with AIDS. That remains the focus of the event today.

The Candlelight Memorial is more than just a memorial. It is an opportunity to educate about AIDS, advocate for policy change, foster partnerships and community dialogue, and improve skills for community mobilization. With 33 million people estimated to be infected worldwide, the Memorial serves as an important uniting intervention among civil society and their governments, breaking down social barriers, and giving hope to future generations.

The AIDS Society of Barbados Inc. has been involved in coordinating the local event for a number of years, the Barbados Fire Service HIV/AIDS Committee is proud to be participating and supporting this very important community event.

Sincerely,
Barbados Fire Service HIV/AIDS Committee