Lake County Hosts World AIDS Day Event to Honor Lives Lost

World AIDS Day is set to be commemorated in Lake County on **December 6, 2024**, with a community event designed to honor lives lost and celebrate advancements in HIV/AIDS care. From **16:00 to 20:00**, the **Greenbelt Cultural Center** in North Chicago will serve as the venue for this annual observance, which aims to unite local residents in the fight against stigma associated with the disease.

The event will feature a range of activities, including a candlelighting ceremony and a drag performance by **Lola Madison**. Special guest **Professor Alex Ortiz** from **Universidad Iberoamericana Puebla** will also be in attendance, contributing to the evening’s discussions and celebrations. This gathering is open to all, and there is no cost to participate.

Executive Director of the Lake County Health Department, **Chris Hoff**, emphasized the organization’s commitment to combating the HIV epidemic. “The Health Department is proud to play an important role in ending the HIV epidemic through treatment and prevention,” Hoff stated in a recent news release.

The theme for this year’s World AIDS Day event is “**Without Borders, Without Stigma: Giving Flowers in Life**.” This theme underscores the right to dignity and respect in healthcare, particularly regarding HIV treatment, which should be free from judgment and barriers. The phrase “giving someone their flowers” signifies celebrating individuals for their contributions and recognizing their resilience.

Statistics from the Lake County Health Department reveal significant progress in HIV care. **Valerie Johansen**, the STI program coordinator, noted, “In 2024, **93 percent** of our clients with HIV were able to suppress the virus.” Despite this achievement, Johansen acknowledged that there is still much work to be done in the ongoing battle against HIV/AIDS.

The event enjoys support from various organizations, including **Gilead Sciences**, **ViiV Healthcare**, **Walgreens Specialty Pharmacy**, **Awaken Culture**, **Ascension Illinois Health Housing and Health Alliance**, **United Way of Lake County**, the **Chicago Workers Collaborative**, and local chapters of **Delta Sigma Theta Sorority** and **Chi Eta Phi Sorority**.

Community members are encouraged to attend this important event to show their solidarity against HIV stigma and discrimination. For those interested in participating, further information and RSVP details can be obtained by calling **847-377-8450**.

As World AIDS Day approaches, the Lake County Health Department and its partners continue to advocate for awareness, support, and treatment for those affected by HIV/AIDS, fostering an inclusive environment that prioritizes health and well-being for all.