AIDS Remembrance Day: From Grief to Collective Action
Every year on the third Sunday of May, the world celebrates World AIDS Remembrance Day (International AIDS Candlelight Memorial). This is not just a date on the calendar, but a day of deep regret, solidarity, and at the same time a reminder that the fight for human lives continues every moment.
This day unites millions of people around a common goal: to remember those who have lost their lives to the disease, support those living with HIV, and mobilize society's efforts to overcome the epidemic.
The story that began with a candle
This day was first celebrated in 1983 in San Francisco (USA). Then a group of activists, moved and outraged by the scale of mortality from a disease that was little known at the time and the complete lack of support from society, took to the streets with candles. They wanted to draw attention to the tragedy that was unfolding before their eyes and honor the memory of their friends and loved ones.
Later, this movement became international. The symbol of memory and solidarity became red ribbon, proposed by artist Frank Moore in 1991, and quilts — huge cloths, the pieces of which were sewn together by relatives and friends in memory of each person who died of AIDS.
Why does this day remain important?
Thanks to the rapid development of medicine, an HIV diagnosis today is a chronic illness, not a death sentence. Modern antiretroviral therapy (ART) allows people with HIV to live long, full lives, give birth to healthy children, and be completely safe for their partners (the rule applies: Not detected = Not transmitted).
But people still die from AIDS (the terminal stage of HIV infection). Why is this happening?
- Late diagnosis: Many people learn about their status too late, when their immunity is already critically damaged.
- Stigma and discrimination: Fear of condemnation from society, loved ones, or even doctors often stops people from taking a simple test or starting treatment on time.
- Lack of information: There are still myths about the ways HIV is transmitted that generate unfounded fear or, conversely, frivolity.
Situation in Ukraine
This day is of special significance for Ukraine. Our country has been fighting the HIV epidemic for years, and even in the midst of a full-scale war, the medical system and the public sector are doing everything possible to provide patients with free medicines. At the same time, the war has created new challenges: internal displacement of citizens, destruction of hospitals, and logistical complications for receiving therapy.
It is important to know: In Ukraine, HIV testing is completely free and confidential. You can get it from your family doctor, at Dovira clinics, or through rapid tests at community organizations.
How can each of us get involved?
AIDS Remembrance Day is a call to action for everyone. What can one patient, citizen, or activist do?
- Get tested for HIV. This is the best way to show concern for your own health and the health of your partner. Experts recommend doing this at least once a year.
- Overcome stereotypes. HIV is not transmitted through handshakes, hugs, shared utensils, or everyday life. Education breaks down the walls of alienation.
- Support those around you. Show empathy for people living with this diagnosis, because psychological support is sometimes just as effective as medication.
- Light a candle of remembrance. On the third Sunday of May, remember those who have passed away and consider what we can do to ensure that future generations grow up in a world free from AIDS.
To remember means to act. We cannot bring back those we have lost, but we can do everything in our power to stop further losses.
Head of the clinical diagnostic laboratory of Medi Lab Plus LLC, Master of Biochemistry with over 15 years of management experience. Monitors compliance of research with international EUCAST protocols and ISO 15189 standard. Acts as a medical editor of the site materials. More details…