DCentric

http://www.aids.gov/awareness-days/

According to the president of the Washington Area Women’s Foundation, Nicky Goren, Washington, D.C. “has an AIDS rate for women that is 12 times the national average and rivals sub-Saharan African countries“. That’s a sobering statistic to contemplate on National Women and Girls HIV/AIDS Awareness Day.

Why have a day devoted to Women and girls? Because:

HIV/AIDS is a serious public health issue affecting nearly 280,000 women in the United States. While men account for most HIV/AIDS cases, the impact on women is growing. In addition, research shows that, when compared to men, women face gaps in access and care.

In D.C., The Women’s Collective, a local nonprofit that serves women who are either living with or at-risk for HIV/AIDS, is hosting two events, one of which is going on right now:

Women Raising Awareness Event 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The Women’s Collective– 1331 Rhode Island Ave., NE
Activities include Medicaid enrollment, free HIV testing and a Safer Sex in the City party.

The Positive Ladies Soccer Club film screening and discussion 6 to 9 p.m.
National Press Club – 529 14 th Street, NW
In partnership with the NAACP and the National Council of Negro Women