Take A Stand By Acknowledging World AIDS Day December 1st 2009

        It was exactly one year ago today that I first became aware of World AIDS Day. I thought a lot about the concept and even wondered why I had never heard of it before. I came to the sad realization that I just didn’t identify with the cause and as a result didn’t care. Though I am of Black and African heritage, the two groups are among the highest affected by the disease, I have never (to my knowledge) come across anyone who is directly affected by AIDS. I have never met anyone who was infected with HIV and therefore I couldn’t put a face to the disease as I could with cancer and heart disease. I, like most people my age, have been tested for HIV. I remember the terrible anxiety, frustration, fear and even regret I felt when waiting for the results, and the euphoric relief when I was told that I was HIV negative. I can’t imagine what my life would be like if that coin had flipped the other way, but it is a shocking reality for more and more people everyday. 

        This year I wanted to do something to commemorate WAD. Though I am not in a position to give money to a worthy cause like AMfar, or have the time to volunteer at AID Atlanta, I do have a voice. Just three days ago, I posted a very impromptu casting call on my Facebook Photography Page, and within the hour had responses from two willing fans. I wanted to somehow generate a connection with those models, and with those who would later view the images. I also wanted there to be no subtlety to the fact that these images were about HIV/AIDS. It didn’t matter whether the models themselves were living with the disease, but in many ways represents the beauty of the shots. These beautiful young people lent their likeness to a cause, not knowing whether people would judge them or label them, but they proudly and courageously took a stand for the cause, and I sincerely hope that this will inspire others to do the same. Things that you can do to show your awareness may be as simple as wearing the color RED, educating yourself about HIV/AIDS, or even searching for outlet through which you can volunteer your time or contribute financially.  


Models: Jeremy Jackson and Kristi Hector


Visit The World AIDS Day Official Site for more information.

Inspiration for the text came from a group portrait of ACT UP activists by the late Richard Avedon