National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day!
By: Alan Baxter, Staff Writer

       February is not only Black History Month, but it is also the month of AIDS Awareness. In today's society many are not aware of the conditions of the HIV virus. The HIV virus affects thousands of people each day. African Americans are among these people. Many different types of organizations are trying to help African Americans. One of these groups is the NBHAAD group.  National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day is a community mobilization effort that builds capacity to increase awareness, participation and support for HIV prevention, care and treatment among African Americans. February 7, 2006 marks the sixth year of this annual event. A major inspiration for NBHAAD is Louis E. Harris (1947-2003) who passed on due to complications with bladder cancer. His work and dedication will be missed along with his kind smile and warm words of encouragement. It is hoped that NBHAAD will continue to build the capacity of community based organizations (CBO) as well as community stakeholders to increase awareness, prevent HIV and get those who need treatment into care. Currently, NBHAAD is directed by a group known as the Strategic Leadership Council who partners with the CDC to mobilize communities and address specific issues in regards to local epidemics and best practices that are science based and will influence the course of HIV in Black communities across the country. Initially, the founding body held quarterly meetings to discuss activities, trainings, and/or events that each organization was doing around the country. The concept was to have a day to recognize the devastation of HIV/AIDS and to promote testing, education and involvement within African-American communities. Now, the Strategic Leadership Council is responsible for strategically directing and overseeing NBHAAD along with the National Steering Committee, which assists in the overall planning and coordination of what will occur leading up to February 7. These groups meet via monthly conference calls. The expected outcomes of NBHAAD are to increase reporting of accurate up-to-date statistics on the HIV and AIDS epidemic among Blacks by electronic and print media, radio and television stations increase collaboration and sharing of resources at the national and local levels increase resources and support including capacity building assistance for health departments, community based organizations and stakeholders serving Black communities; and increase the number of Blacks at high risk for acquiring HIV that receive HIV counseling, testing and other HIV prevention, treatment and care services. As African Americans continue to be impacted by this disease, the individuals who make up the planning bodies of National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day will continue to work daily in local communities to use the best programs and interventions to prevent new infections as well as ensure that those living with the disease have access to available care and treatment services. If you or someone you know would like to get tested for the HIV/AIDS virus you cant visit the Berks AIDS Network on 429 Walnut Street or for information call (610) 375-3229.