In the early, ignorant days of the AIDS epidemic, before information about it became widespread, the disease grew at a staggering rate. But thanks to new treatments and the prevalence of material on AIDS, the number of fatalities are decreasing and the future looks brighter. While researchers still seek a cure, our main defense against the disease remains education. Beginning today, AIDS Awareness Week gives University students a valuable opportunity to combat the disease's spread through educating themselves and others.
Clearly, we need to continue and improve the flow of information about AIDS. Despite the progress made, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimate a minimum 40,000 new infections of HIV, the virus that causes AIDS, occur each year.
Those feeling they've already heard everything about AIDS should look at the week's roster of events. The variety of activities might surprise students expecting only presentations on risk factors.
For one, students can talk about sex with famous expert Dr. Ruth Westheimer at the Michigan Theater this Wednesday night. Those familiar with Westheimer know to expect a candid and entertaining evening.
Students looking elsewhere to participate might appreciate the lectures of Al and Jane Nakatani, whose personal stories regarding AIDS, death and homophobia can put a face on a disease often thought of only in statistics.
But events on campus are not simply held to lecture and discussion formats. Artistic contributions to the campaign for raised AIDS awareness pervade the campus.
Today, noted a capella group Amazin' Blue kicks the week off with a concert in the Michigan League Underground at 8 p.m. Following the show, students can screen the award-winning film "Philadelphia." And throughout the week, students can venture to Pierpont Commons on North Campus and view an art exhibit related to AIDS awareness.
The organizers of AIDS Awareness Week did a commendable job providing students with multiple forums for AIDS education. While this is a busy time in the semester, students can make room in their schedules to walk through an art exhibit before class or catch a lecture after dinner. Even those considering themselves well-educated about AIDS likely will find a new perspective or a new story that furthers their experiences with AIDS.
AIDS Awareness Week provides University students with a much-needed reminder of the possibilities for infection and the actions students should take to prevent the disease's proliferation. Education still remains our most viable weapon against a devastating illness.
Wednesday: Dr. Ruth; "Let's Talk About Sex" at the Michigan Theater, 8 p.m.
All week: Art Exhibit in Pierpont Commons Atrium Gallery. Exhibit ends Dec. 3.
11-29-99
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