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FOR IMMEDIATE
RELEASE: Monday, December 1st, 2003 Today Bebashi is commemorating World AIDS Day by hosting a HIV, SEX, and US Town Forum with some of Philadelphia’s most distinguished citizens. This important discussion will begin at 6pm and held in the Large Auditorium (Bonnell Building) of Community College of Philadelphia. Panelists include: Robert Adams, Abbott Laboratories; Gary Bell, Executive Director for Bebashi; John Bell, activist; Councilwoman Jannie Blackwell; Monique Braxton, NBC 10; Health Commissioner John F. Domzalski; Bernard Harris, M.D.; J. Whyatt Mondesire, President of NAACP – Philadelphia Chapter; Rev. Elisha B. Morris.The town forum will be emceed by Mocha of 103.9, The Beat. Topics being discussed tonight include: what kinds of testing methods are available; how do you conquer being socially stigmatized, what are the tools for safe sex; what is the church doing about it; what role does the music industry/media play in promoting sexuality; why does HIV/AIDS affect African Americans disproportionately; should schools and prisons distribute condoms; what role does poverty play in HIV/AIDS; how does the international focus on HIV/AIDS impact us domestically….and many more. In addition, Bebashi will also offer the new 20- minute rapid response HIV test free of charge and anyone participating will receive an AMC movie theater ticket. According to the CDC -it is estimated that a quarter of a million Americans who are affected with HIV are not aware of it. In the United States, African Americans make up 12% of the population, and account for half of new HIV infections. In fact, 42 million are infected worldwide with HIV and five people die worldwide every minute of every day! And in Philadelphia alone, it is estimated that 16,000 have AIDS. Do you want to hear more current trends about HIV/AIDS, have something to say, or want to ask what’s being done - come and join us! Bebashi was founded in 1985, and is the first AIDS service organization to address the alarming increase of HIV/AIDS in the African American community of Philadelphia. Today, Bebashi continues to conduct street outreach, but expanded to include free HIV, STD, and pregnancy testing and counseling, HIV prevention education, case management for HIV+ individuals, housing counseling, support groups for various lifestyles, and provides emergency food for those infected and affected by HIV/AIDS. Bebashi serves 15,000 annually. Our mission is to provide culturally sensitive health related information, direct service, research, and technical assistance to the urban community. Drop off a new and unwrapped toy to support our toy drive for children infected and affected with HIV/AIDS For more information
call Bebashi at 215-769-3561 |
