President Joe Biden commemorated World AIDS Day on Sunday by hosting the AIDS Memorial Quilt on the South Lawn of the White House, marking the first time the quilt has been displayed at the executive residence. The event gathered survivors, advocates, and families to honor those who lost their lives to the AIDS epidemic and to show solidarity with the 1.2 million Americans living with HIV.
“This movement is fully woven into the fabric and history of America,” Biden said, recognizing the enduring impact of efforts to combat AIDS. He praised the global movement's success in saving lives and changing perceptions.
The event showcased 124 sections of the quilt, a poignant memorial to individuals who died from AIDS-related illnesses. First unveiled in 1987, the quilt serves as a powerful symbol of the ongoing battle against the epidemic. A red ribbon, signifying HIV and AIDS awareness, was also displayed on the South Portico of the White House.
Globally, approximately 40 million people are living with HIV, according to the White House. Jeanne White-Ginder, the mother of Ryan White, introduced Biden at the event. Ryan White, who contracted AIDS through a tainted blood transfusion, became a symbol of the fight against the disease before his death in 1990. Reflecting on her son’s legacy, White-Ginder emphasized the importance of combating AIDS without stigmatizing those affected. The Ryan White CARE Act, passed in 1990 and named in his honor, received Biden's support during his time as a senator.
The event also paid tribute to Dr. Anthony Fauci for his decades-long contributions to HIV/AIDS research and public health. Fauci, who retired from government service in 2022, attended the gathering and was recognized for his role in advancing the fight against infectious diseases.
The Biden administration has prioritized addressing HIV/AIDS through expanded access to preventive measures such as PrEP and efforts to reduce stigma. These initiatives align with broader strategies aimed at ending the epidemic and supporting affected communities.
(Source: UNB)
BD-Pratidin English/Mazdud
