The first International AIDS Candlelight Memorial was held in 1983. The cause of AIDS at this time was unknown with less than a few thousand AIDS deaths recorded. The coordinators initially wished to honor the memory of those lost to this merciless and enigmatic disease while demonstrating support for those living with AIDS. This continues to remain the focus of the event today.

Since the beginning of the pandemic, AIDS has claimed more than 28 million lives, with over 42 million now living with the virus. As AIDS continues to ravage communities around the world, the Candlelight has become a tangible vehicle for communities to take action by publicly mourning loved ones lost to AIDS, and by strengthening local and national commitments to fighting the pandemic. In small communities, the Memorial can help increase awareness and understanding, while promoting volunteerism and fundraising. In large cities, it unites a diverse spectrum of people who care about HIV/AIDS. In all cases, the event creates a sense of global solidarity, and generates worldwide attention.

Local observances of the Memorial vary from community to community. Each Coordinator has the opportunity to tailor the framework of the Candlelight Memorial to meet the particular needs of the people they are serving. Events can vary from a few friends gathering at a park or a place of worship to thousands of people marching through town holding candles and singing songs. There is no “right” way to organize a Memorial.

Please consider creating a PSA urging people to find out about, and attend their local memorial.

More information available at www.candlelightmemorial.org/.

They’re looking for local support at each of the locations they’re visiting, and, of course, they still need to raise funds. If you want to support this grass-roots LGBT action, they’d be grateful to have a PSA that can be played on queercasts.

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