World AIDS Day

P R O C L A M A T I O N

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WORLD AIDS DAY

WHEREAS, HIV disease, including AIDS, continues to have a global impact, with an estimated 37.9 million people, including 1.7 million children living with HIV/AIDS by the end of 2018, with 23 million receiving antiretroviral therapy, an increase of 1.3 million since 2017; and

WHEREAS, AIDS and HIV disease continue to be a priority health concern in the United States, with 1.1 million Americans living with HIV infection, and an estimated 14% being unaware of their HIV status; and

WHEREAS, in Arlington, 1,243 people are currently living with HIV/AIDS and 1,103 people have died from HIV/AIDS since 1982; and

WHEREAS, Arlington is committed to expanding and strengthening the countywide effort to stop the spread of HIV/AIDS, support those affected by this illness, and pay tribute to those who have lost their lives; and

WHEREAS, the fight against HIV/AIDS will only be won through increased advances in, and equal access to, HIV testing, treatment and care;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Christian Dorsey, Chair of the County Board of Arlington, Virginia, do hereby proclaim December 1, 2019 as

WORLD AIDS DAY

in Arlington County, and urge all residents to take part in activities and observances designed to reduce the devastating impact of HIV/AIDS, encourage Arlingtonians to get tested for HIV, use protection and encourage their friends and loved ones to get tested, and demonstrate compassion for those infected with HIV and AIDS.

Christian Dorsey
Chair