AIDS 2012 conference to discuss problem of HIV in Black community

In a series of presentations, panel discussions, and training sessions at the 2012 International AIDS Conference (AIDS2012), the Black AIDS Institute (The Institute) will bring together leaders in medicine, politics, journalism, and the arts to discuss the problem of HIV/ AIDS in the Black Community.

The Institute has developed a comprehensive, coordinated programming, designed to ensure that Black advocates attending AIDS 2012 maximize their experience, and return to their communities to help build infrastructure and capacity to accomplish the goals and objectives of the National HIV/AIDS strategy to lower infection rate, link patients to care and treatment, and increase utilization of biomedical interventions.

"We have designed a strategic plan to take this Conference back to the people and build HIV literacy in local communities," said Phill Wilson, President and CEO of the Black AIDS Institute. "I am pleased to see the many prominent doctors, medical researchers, and leaders in the community who will participate with us -- because together we have the power to end this epidemic – in our lifetime."

The Institute is hosting a Black Advocates Delegation (B.A.D.) from cities across the country to provide scientific training and opportunities to meet scientific researchers and plenary speakers. There will be a two-day International Community Science and Treatment Workshop for the delegation before the conference, hosted by George Washington University, offering presentations from leading researchers from around the world.  The B.A.D. delegates will also receive guidance on hosting Post-Conference hubs in their local communities after the Conference.

During the Conference, The Institute is sponsoring 25 events, including two webcasts with the Kaiser Family Foundation and a panel discussion with The Washington Post; two press conferences; Plenary meetings; an opportunity to engage with members of the President's Advisory Council on HIV/AIDS, including Phill Wilson; and multiple receptions with celebrities, advocates and policy makers who represent the spectrum of communities affected by HIV.

The Institute will also host daily Community Science Empowerment Breakfast Updates to preview the scientific presentations though the day, and has invited plenary speakers to meet and speak with visitors in the Global Village, where the Institute will host a Black Diaspora Regional Networking Zone and an NGO booth.

The Institute has also advocated for a larger presence for Black advocates, including the Reverend Charles Straight, Congresswomen Barbara Lee, Linda Scruggs and Debbie MacMillan, who will have major speaking roles at the Conference.   Black AIDS Institute ambassadors Danny Glover, Vanessa Williams and Jamar Rogers will help spread the word about the importance of refocusing on HIV -- particularly within Black communities in the U.S.

In addition, Black AIDS Weekly editors will produce special daily online editions of Black AIDS "Daily" July 23 through July 27 and a 4-page printed newsletter for distribution to attendees of the Conference.