LIVING IN SOLIDARITY

The International AIDS Candlelight Memorial Activities hold a significant role as an annual global moment of remembrance, honoring those who have lost their lives due to AIDS-related infections. Moreover, it provides a platform to show support for people living with HIV (PLHIV), raise awareness about the ongoing challenges faced by affected individuals and communities, and promote preventive efforts.

To visually represent solidarity and support during the AIDS Candlelight Memorial ceremonies, Social Action for Lasting Transformation (SALT) took the initiative to produce shirts. The design of the shirts incorporated this year's theme, "SPREAD LOVE AND SOLIDARITY TO BUILD A STRONGER COMMUNITY."

Initially, SALT collected funds from its volunteers to produce the shirts. However, recognizing the importance of extending support to other local HIV frontliners in Davao City, SALT sought financial assistance from like-minded institutions.

Father Dan Cancino stepped up to bridge the gap and secured support from CBCP-ECHC, Woodwater Center for Healing, and CBCP. With this assistance, SALT was able to produce 39 pieces of t-shirts.

During the actual ceremony of the International AIDS Candlelight Memorial (IACM) in Davao City on May 19, 2023, SALT distributed the shirts to various organizations and individuals, including the City Health Officer, FPOP – Davao, ALAGAD – Mindanao, RHWC – Davao, DOH Region Office, PLHIV support group leaders, and SALT volunteers. Subsequently, on May 21, 2023, ALAGAD Mindanao spearheaded another IACM ceremony, gathering their member organizations.

The support provided by CBCP for the printing of the t-shirts played a crucial role in the success of the AIDS Candlelight Memorial Activities in Davao City, creating several notable impacts:

1. Enhanced Visibility: The t-shirts served as a unifying symbol, fostering a sense of unity among participants and volunteers. By wearing the shirts, the participants became walking ambassadors, significantly increasing the visibility of the event. This led to greater awareness among the general public and initiated conversations about HIV/AIDS.

2. Promoting Solidarity: The shirts created a supportive environment, promoting a sense of solidarity among the participants. This supportive atmosphere encouraged open discussions about the challenges faced by people living with HIV (PLHIV).

3. Sustainable Awareness: Even after the event, the shirts will continue to be worn by our beloved advocates, extending the reach of the awareness campaign. This helps in promoting ongoing dialogue and raising awareness about HIV/AIDS in the long term.

Finally, SALT expresses its heartfelt gratitude to Father Dan Cancino and Ms. June Jade Mendoza for their invaluable assistance in fulfilling the urgent request. SALT also extends its gratitude to Wood Water Center of Healing, CBCP, and CBCP-ECHC for their generous support. Their contributions played a significant role in the success of the AIDS Candlelight Memorial Activities in Davao City.