NATIONAL NATIVE HIV/AIDS AWARENESS DAY
On March 20th, National Native HIV/AIDS Awareness Day brings many groups across the United States together to increase education and provide support in communities nationwide.
#NativeHIVAIDSAwarnessDay
Over 1.1 million people in the U.S. are living with HIV/AIDS. One in seven of them isn’t aware that they have it. Of the nearly 39,000 people diagnosed (CDC) with HIV in 2017, 1% were among the American Indian and Alaska Native populations. While those at the highest risk are gay and bisexual men who are sexually active, anyone not practicing safe sex is at risk. HIV is a virus that causes an infection, and AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) is a condition that can develop when someone contracts HIV.
The campaign provides educational information, support options, and more. Clinics, support groups, and others join this National Day campaign to learn more about prevention, testing, and bringing attention to this national health issue. While treatment options have improved over the decades, prevention and testing are still necessary.
HOW TO OBSERVE NATIVE HIV/AIDS AWARENESS DAY
Organizations such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the National Native Capacity Building Assistance Network promote the day. They issue press releases, displaying posters, and holding community events for the day. The National Native American AIDS Prevention Center (NNAAPC) also teams up with various organizations nationwide to commemorate the day. Attend the events. Learn more about prevention and testing. Join the conversations and your community in raising awareness.
Each year the communities of the American Indians, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiians:
- Encourage Native people to get educated, learn more about HIV/AIDS, and its impact on their community.
- Work together to promote testing options and HIV counseling in Native communities.
- Help eliminate the stigma associated with HIV/AIDS.
Use #NativeHIVAIDSAwarnessDay to post on social media.
NATIONAL NATIVE HIV/AIDS AWARENESS DAY HISTORY
In October of 2006, the National Native CBA Network presented a resolution to the National Congress of American Indians for National Native HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, and it was approved. They held the first observance in 2007.
For more information on National Native HIV/AIDS Awareness Day visit:
https://www.nnaapc.org/news/awareness-day.htm
https://www.cdc.gov/features/nativehivaids/
HIV/AIDS FAQ
Q. Where can I be tested for HIV?
A. Several facilities offer HIV testing. Look for these facilities where you live:
- Physician’s office
- STD or sexual health clinics
- Medical centers
- Health department
- Family planning clinics
- Treatment programs
You can also visit cdc.gov for listings.
Q. Is there a cure for HIV/AIDS?
A. No. Research continues and several treatment options are available for those diagnosed with HIV/AIDS.
March 20th Celebrated History
1852
John P. Jewett and Company publishes Uncle Tom’s Cabin; or, Life Among the Lowly by Harriet Beecher Stowe.
1854
Former Whigs and Free-Soilers meet in Ripon, Wisconsin, and form the Republican Party with the primary goal to prevent slavery from extending into western territories.
1916
Albert Einstein publishes his Theory of General Relativity in the scientific journal Annalen der Physik.
1922
The United States Navy commissions its first aircraft carrier, the USS Langley.
1985
In a race riddled with storms, Libby Riddles claimed victory in the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, becoming the first woman to win the famed endurance race.
1987
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved the antiviral drug azidothymidine (AZT) for the treatment of AIDS patients.
1999
Bertrand Piccard and Brian Jones completed the first non-stop circumnavigation of the Earth by balloon.
March 20th Celebrated Birthdays
Amanda Clement – 1888
In 1905, the seventeen-year-old college student became the first woman to be paid to umpire professional baseball games. Having grown up playing the game with her brothers and his friends, Clement was well versed in the game. One reporter from her inaugural year wrote, “Altogether Miss Clement is declared to be the equal if not the superior of most of the league umpires.” – The Creston Statesman (Creston, Nebraska) October 6, 1905.
Bases loaded. Bottom of the ninth, a tied game between Hudson and Hawarden.
The batter stepped to the plate. Behind the pitcher, arbiter Amanda Clement leaned forward, prepared to make her call. Sweat dampened her black blouse, a blouse she ironed and folded the night before.
The pitcher’s delivery rose to the challenge; the batter’s reply – a ricochet to the mound.
Runners advanced. Men converged at home. Clement’s skirt kicked up dust as the lone woman sped toward the play, scanning the field. The ball shot to the catcher’s glove. Runner slides, dust flies.
Catcher lays the tag.
“He’s out!”
At the Plate by Michele Schaaf
Sister Rosetta Tharpe – 1915
Considered the Godmother of Rock & Roll, Sister Rosetta Tharpe’s spiritual gospel vocals against the background of her signature electric guitar inspired many Hall of Fame inductees.
BF Skinner – 1904
The American psychologist firmly believed in behaviorism developing his own philosophy called “radical behaviorism.” During his career, he would further develop theories regarding operant conditioning.
Carl Reiner – 1922
The award-winning comedic actor, director, and writer began making his mark on pop culture in the 1950s. From The Dick Van Dyke Show to The Jerk and the Ocean’s series, Reiner saw both popular and critical success. He often teamed up with Mel Brooks, creating iconic projects such as “The 2000 Year Old Man.”
Fred Rogers – 1928
On February 19, 1968, the Presbyterian minister launched Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood on the National Education Network. The program introduced children to a world of puppets, creativity, and a safe environment to discuss concerns children have. Central to Mister Roger’s daily routine was his iconic sweaters, which he donned at the beginning of every episode.
Bobby Orr – 1948
Considered one of hockey’s greatest players, the defenseman for the Boston Bruins played nine seasons in the National Hockey League.
Notable Mentions
Vera Panova – 1905
Bettye Washington Green – 1935
Pat Riley – 1945
William Hurt – 1950
David Thewlis – 1963
Kathy Ireland – 1963
Big Bird
