Every year since 1988, the whole world observes World AIDS Day on December 1. It’s a time to remember the millions of people lost to the disease, to support survivors and celebrate the medical and social service breakthroughs, and to raise awareness about the AIDS pandemic and efforts to reach a cure.
In Boston this year, the coronavirus pandemic has mostly moved World AIDS Day gatherings online. But Boston-based Fenway Health is kicking off their World AIDS Day observations with a live, in-person, socially distanced outdoor event with masks, gloves and hand sanitizers on the scene. (They’ll also record the event and post it for those who can’t be there in person). Plus Fenway, which has incorporated the region’s AIDS Action Committee into its great work since 2013, is observing World AIDS Day all day and into the evening with more virtual programming.
Here’s their line-up:
Noon, Dec. 1 — Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence World AIDS Day Vigil: Please join the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence World AIDS Day Vigil to celebrate life and honor those affected by HIV/AIDS. The vigil will be held at the AIDS Memorial Tree on the Commonwealth Avenue Mall, near Kenmore Square. The Sisters will have masks, gloves, and hand sanitizer to share. If you are unable to attend this live event, the Sisters will be posting a video of the vigil on social media. If you have any questions, please contact the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence at info@thebostonsisters.org.
1 p.m., Dec. 1 — World AIDS Day Panel: Join panelists Kenneth Mayer, MD (Fenway Health), Dr. A.C. Demidont (Gilead Sciences), Adrianna Boulin (Fenway Institute), Alyvia Norris (Fenway Health), and Athena Vaughn (Fenway Institute) as we take a look at how the fight against HIV/AIDS has evolved over the years. This dynamic panel of medical and community leaders will examine the state of the epidemic today and discuss what the future of treatment, prevention, and access to care might look like in the coming years. Click here to join via Zoom.
6 p.m., Dec. 1 — Banter & Bingo with the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence: Community connection has become more essential than ever, as we all struggle to settle into our virtual world. That’s why we are thrilled to bring back a cherished and missed signature event — Banter & Bingo! Sister Lida Christ, of the Boston Sisters of Perpetual indulgence, will join us as our hostess extraordinaire for a lighthearted evening of Banter and Bingo! Everyone who makes a donation to our Giving Tuesday campaign will receive a link for Banter and Bingo cards, and prizes will be awarded throughout the night. All are welcome, and we don’t want cost to be a barrier for anyone. Click here to join via Zoom. (If you are unable to give at this time, please email Shari Caplan at scaplan@fenwayhealth.org to join us.)
All day, Dec. 1 — Inside Fenway Video Series: Throughout World AIDS Day/Giving Tuesday, we’ll be posting video shorts on social media to give you an inside look at the work we do at Fenway Health and AIDS Action. Meet our staff, learn about our programs and services, and discover how your support helps our communities thrive. Check out our Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram pages throughout the day and introduce the Fenway Family to your network.
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