I ONLY KNEW IT WAS A RIBBON UNTIL I READ THIS

THE RED RIBBON FOR HIV AWARENESS

THE HIV RED RIBBON... How it all started

 

It all started in 1991 about 10 years after the emergence of HIV

• About 12 artists (photographers, painters, film makers, and costume designers) gathered to discuss a new project for a New York arts organisation that raises awareness of HIV called VISUAL AIDS.
• After a short brainstorm they come up with a simple idea – the red ribbon, worn to signify awareness and support for people living with HIV.
• When the artists sat down to work on this project, their aim was to get people talking about HIV. This was during a time where HIV was highly stigmatised and people living with the virus were suffering behind closed doors, some too scared to even tell their loved ones. The artists wanted to create a visual expression of compassion for people living with, and affected by, HIV.
• The artists were inspired by the yellow ribbons tied on trees to show support for the US military fighting in the Gulf War. Pink and rainbow stripes were rejected because they were too closely associated with the gay community, and they wanted to convey that HIV went beyond the gay community and was relevant to everyone.
• Red was chosen as it is bold and visible – symbolising passion, a heart and love. The shape was chosen simply because it was easy to make and replicate – anyone can make one by just cutting out a piece of ribbon, looping it around your finger and pinning it on themselves.
• Initially there was text that went with it, to explain why they were being worn, but eventually this was dropped as its symbolism no longer needed an explanation.
• Within weeks of the red ribbon idea being born, world-famous actors starting wearing it to high-profile award ceremonies such as the Oscars and talking about why it was important.
• The media also took notice, and within a short space of time the red ribbon symbol became universally recognised. At the Freddie Mercury Tribute Concert, held at London's Wembley Stadium on Easter Sunday, 1992, more than 100,000 red ribbons were distributed among the audience, with performers such as George Michael wearing one.
• The red ribbon continues to be a powerful force in the efforts to increase public awareness of HIV.

culled from www.worldaidsday.org

ENDEAVOUR TO WEAR A RED OUTFIT THIS TUESDAY, DECEMBER 1, 2015 AND ON EVERY 1st December. Wearing the Red Ribbon does not identify you as HIV-positive but shows your solidarity against discrimination against persons living with HIV. Feel free to wear the RED RIBBON as we all join hands to fight the virus and not the Positives.

Pharma-Guide Digest is proud to be associated with the activities of the 2015 WORLD AIDS DAY... Follow us on facebook, we have a lot to share with you this December: www.facebook.com/pharma-guide-nigeria