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GME News
12.12.04
by :
Georges
Azzi - Coordinator, Helem Center
Brett Barakat -
Volunteer, Helem Center
Helem Lebanon recently held some
events and activities, with the aim of creating further
awareness of HIV and AIDS in Lebanon. The timing of these events
and activities were to mark the occurrence of World AIDS Day,
being on Wednesday, 1st of December.
On the evening of World AIDS Day,
Helem arranged a Film and Discussion Night at L’Estral Cinema in
Hamra.
This Film and Discussion Night
commenced with an open discussion, which was lead by Dr FAYSAL
EL- Kak (who is involved in HIV and AIDS-related committees in
Lebanon) and Josian Khoury (who is from the National AIDS
Program). Considerable statistics on HIV and AIDS were provided,
which included world-wide numbers, as well as statistics for
Lebanon.
There was one important statistic
provided, which should be noted: In Lebanon, there have been 808
reported cases of HIV/AIDS (10% homosexual, 6% bisexual, 50%
heterosexual, and 34% undeclared). Further, it is estimated that
there are 2400 cases of HIV/AIDS in Lebanon.
The audience contributed
significantly in the open discussion, with their main
questioning aimed at how HIV and AIDS awareness and prevention
is being tackled in Lebanon.
The open discussion was followed by
the viewing of the documentary feature film: Common Threads.
This very moving and emotional film looks at the early days of
HIV and AIDS in the United States, the Government’s
insignificant response, and the community’s significant protest;
and it is told through the true story of five individuals
affected by HIV and AIDS.
There was an excellent attendance of
more than thirty people, and the male/female attendee split was
60/40. Further, as HIV and AIDS affects more than just the
homosexual population, it was pleasing to see that some
individuals from the heterosexual community were also in
attendance.
An additional activity organized by Helem for
World AIDS Day, was the distribution of hundreds of red ribbons
(the symbol of World AIDS Day), condoms, and information cards
(about Helem). These were distributed at ACID Nightclub, UV, and
Orange Mechanic. Helem have noted that this activity would not
have been possible without the support of these venue owners,
and the National AIDS Program.
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