La Laguna Marks World AIDS Day with a Vibrant Community Gathering Focused on Advocacy and Awareness

On December 1st, La Laguna will host a pivotal event to commemorate World AIDS Day, with the primary goal of raising awareness and advocating for the rights of individuals living with HIV. This gathering is not just a celebration; it is a call to action aimed at fostering understanding and compassion within the community.

Event Overview and Significance

The event will unfold in the picturesque Plaza del Adelantado, embracing the theme ‘Heritage of HIV Life: 25 Years of History, 37 Years of Struggle’. This year is particularly significant as it marks the 25th anniversary of La Laguna’s recognition as a World Heritage Site, intertwining the celebration of cultural heritage with the urgent need for public health awareness.

Mayor Luis Yeray Gutiérrez has underscored the importance of this initiative, articulating that it aims to shed light on the realities surrounding HIV, advocate for the rights of those affected, and dismantle the stigmas that persist in society. He reaffirmed the Town Hall’s unwavering commitment to public health and the support of social entities dedicated to education and awareness, emphasizing that the fight against HIV is a collective responsibility.

Community Involvement and Artistic Expressions

The event will feature prominent figures who are passionate about HIV advocacy, including Jesús Carballo, a well-known activist from the Canary Islands, and Carolina Delgado from Médecins du Monde Canarias. They will be joined by comedians Gerson Ramos and Diego Lupiáñez, who are recognized for their engaging podcast ‘Solo Palique’. Carballo articulated the project’s vision of merging art and health, encouraging open discussions about HIV without fear or taboos, thereby fostering a more inclusive dialogue.

Delgado emphasized the ongoing necessity for education and awareness, particularly highlighting the crucial role healthcare professionals play in prevention and health promotion regarding HIV. She noted that informed communities are better equipped to combat misinformation and stigma.

Ramos and Lupiáñez shared that their podcast serves as a unique platform to address misconceptions through humor, aiming to destigmatize HIV and enhance visibility. Their approach not only entertains but also educates, making complex topics more accessible to the public.

Engaging Activities and Schedule of Events

The event promises a full day of engaging activities from 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM, featuring informational booths from various organizations, including Afess Mental Health, Canary Pride, and the Red Cross. Attendees will have the opportunity to interact with these groups, gaining valuable insights into HIV and related issues, as well as resources for support and education.

Throughout the day, multidisciplinary artist Paulina Mocna will be creating a live mural that symbolizes the themes of stigma and memory associated with HIV. This artistic endeavor aims to provoke thought and conversation among attendees, illustrating the emotional and social impacts of the disease. Additionally, visual artist Nico – Inopia will conduct a live print-making session, focusing on the stigma surrounding HIV, further enhancing the artistic dimension of the event.

At 11:00 AM, the ‘Solo Palique’ podcast team will record a special episode live from the event, providing a unique opportunity for attendees to witness the intersection of entertainment and advocacy. Later in the afternoon, at 4:00 PM, Dr. Paula Carraco and Nurse Carolina Delgado will lead an informative workshop on STI prevention, aimed at promoting sexual health and safety among participants.

Families and children will also have a dedicated activity at 5:00 PM, where storyteller Charlie Barrero will share the enchanting tale ‘My Sleeping Dragon’. This story aims to foster discussions on empathy and diversity in relation to HIV, making it a family-friendly event that encourages understanding from a young age.

The day will culminate at 7:00 PM with a powerful reading of a manifesto advocating for the rights of individuals living with HIV. This moment will feature contributions from Hornella Góngora and a performance by La Escándalo, ensuring that the voices of those affected by HIV are heard and celebrated.

Key points

• La Laguna will host an event on December 1st to commemorate World AIDS Day.
• The event is titled ‘Heritage of HIV Life: 25 Years of History, 37 Years of Struggle’.
• Mayor Luis Yeray Gutiérrez emphasized the importance of advocating for the rights of individuals living with HIV.
• Activities will include live art, workshops, and informational booths from various organizations.
• The event aims to raise awareness and combat stigma surrounding HIV.
• Key figures involved include Jesús Carballo, Carolina Delgado, and the ‘Solo Palique’ podcast team.