A river of people of about 10 thousand people participated on Sunday in the 41st edition of the Annual Walk to prevent AIDS. They traveled 4.5 miles around Central Park in this meeting that seeks to raise funds to continue working on the prevention of the virus.
Jacqueline Finch, participant of the event says:
“When you walk here, we are showing our solidarity, which is very important to show the community of New York and other countries, other cities, that it is very important that we love each other.”
The event started early with messages of support for those currently living with HIV and, in turn, reminding all those present that there are several resources and help centers.
GMHC spearheaded the event: they are the world’s premier HIV and AIDS service organization and are looking to raise $2 million for the cause this year. The center has its doors open for those who need tests or medications, referrals for PrEP and PEP as well as psychosocial, legal and immigration support.
Operations Director Josh Hanna explains:
“Government funds are always changing and that help from the community is important, especially in Latino communities that are normally extremely affected by HIV and there are times when they do not have the resources or that confidence to be able to seek support.”
“We help you with absolutely everything, there are many ways to prevent HIV now, there are PrEP and PEP, there are so many ways to avoid infection,” says Jacqueline Díaz, Assistant Vice President of Operations.
“We also have a pharmacy, if you walk through the doors if you need medication and you are positive you leave GMHC with the medication you need.”
Luis Esquivel, participant affirms:
“We have to create awareness in the community, it is something that affects everyone, color does not matter, race does not matter, orientation does not matter. It is for all humanity.”
Víctor Ivanoff, another of the attendees declares:
“Being part of the community, putting up with all of us and that we are in this together.”
If you want to support this cause through a donation or if you need a test contact GMHC through the page www.GMHC.org
2023-05-21 21:38:00
#matter #orientation #humanity #walk #AIDS
