Members of Congleton Pride held a short vigil on Monday (1st December) to mark World AIDS Day.
The group lit candles underneath umbrellas, on a rainy night in the town’s community garden, and spent some time together in reflection.
Across the road, Congleton Town Hall flew the World AIDS Day flag.
Participants – including the Congleton Pride team and members of the public – gathered to hear Rev Murray George speak about the impact of HIV and AIDS on people all over the world, and the discrimination and abuse many have faced as a result of their diagnosis.
More than 44 million people worldwide have died of HIV/AIDS related illnesses and an estimated 41 million people are currently living with HIV, making it one of the largest global public health issues in recorded history.
About 113,500 people in the UK are currently living with HIV, but research has shown that almost half of them feel shame about their diagnoses due to the ongoing stigma around the issue.
In Cheshire East, HIV rates are comparatively low, but this could result in worse outcomes due to late diagnosis because awareness and overall testing rates are lower.
It is thought those diagnosed late are 10 times more likely to die within a year of diagnosis than those diagnosed promptly.
‘Determination’
“After, many years where progress has been made in the world’s response to HIV, it feels now that many support services are being put on hold and funding stopped,” said Rev Murray George of Congleton United Reformed Church.
“Many communities across the world face increased risk and diminished assistance. However, despite the threats and challenges, hope remains.
“There is still much determination, resilience and innovation in communities who strive to bring about an end to AIDS.”
He added: “We recognise the global inequalities in the treatment and care of those living with and dying from AIDS today.
“We give thanks for significant improvements in diagnoses and treatments that have contributed to saving the lives of many people.
“We honour the courage and passion of campaigners and activists who continue to work in the face of stigma and bigotry.
“We pray that the hopeful target of zero transmissions of this disease by 2030 may still be met.”
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