World AIDS Day – December 1st 2017
World AIDS Day 2017 will be observed on Friday, December 1st at the Cathedral of St. Andrew in downtown Honolulu. The main ceremony begins at 6:30 PM with a program of music, hula, and the annual award given by the Department of Health for ‘outstanding contributions in providing HIV/AIDS services in Hawaii.
This year the award goes to Paul Groesbeck who is retiring after 25 years of dedicated and successful service as Executive Director of the Life Foundation, Hawai’i’s first and largest AIDS service organization.
The program begins with the keiki of Kananiokeakua School of Hula dancing “Patchwork Quilt,” with Keali’i Reichel singing in accompaniment.
The music continues with Karol’s Karolers performing several a cappella songs. Cathy Lowenburg, Kiit Dylan Arrieta, and Emily Krause will close the program with a contemporary selection. A reception hosted by Slow Food O’ahu follows.
Before the main ceremony, the Hawaii Center for AIDS will offer a “Living Healthy with HIV” presentation and community forum at 5:30 PM in Davies Hall at St. Andrew’s. This will include the latest research, tips on diet and exercise, and Q & A. The public is invited to this and all World AIDS Day events.
Kapi’olani Community College will observe World AIDS Day on Thursday, November 30, from 10 AM – 1 PM on the KCC campus Great Lawn. Contact kccserve@hawaii.edu for more information on this event.
World AIDS Day was established in 1988 by the World Health Organization as a day for remembering those lost to HIV/AIDS and for commitment to ending the spread of the epidemic. The World AIDS Day Hawai’i Committee is a network of volunteers representing community organizations, religious congregations, government agencies, school groups, and concerned individuals who plan and organize the observance each year. All are welcome to participate.
World AIDS Day Hawai’i Committee
Contact: Su Yates, Life Foundation syates@lifefoundation.org