The first of December is marked each year as World AIDS Day. This day is set aside to reflect on the impact of HIV/AIDS and memorialize those lives lost to the virus.
This year the Southeast Tennessee Community HIV/AIDS Partnership, in collaboration with Channels of Love Ministries, Cempa Community Care, and the Chattanooga Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated will host a World AIDS Day commemoration on Sunday, Dec. 1, from 1-4 p.m. at Saint Marks United Methodist Church, 701 Mississippi Ave.
Cliff Morrison, of the inspirational documentary, 5B, will be the keynote speaker.
In 1983, while everyone else in the country was avoiding patients with AIDS, Mr. Morrison, along with a group of everyday heroes, was doing something unheard of—treating AIDS patients with respect and dignity by opening the first-ever AIDS unit, 5B. At that time no one had any idea how the virus was spread. Patients were put in isolation while healthcare workers reluctantly treated patients hiding behind layers of heavy protective gear called “space suits." In 5B, it was different. The nurses removed their gloves and cared for their patients with compassion and the human touch teaching the world that this disease was not transferred casually.
The event is free to the public. Theater snacks and food will be offered at 1 p.m. The screening will begin at 1:30 p.m.