August 2006

Nearly 400,000 people in Central America and Mexico are infected with HIV, and this number is on the rise. As of 2003, AIDS accounted for 55,400 deaths in the region. Growing response to the disease is needed, and Horizons is thus sponsoring two of its partners from the region – both recognized as community leaders in the promotion of health rights – to participate in the conference, as well as the organizations own international exchange on the topic.

Miguel Orellana is the director of the Salvadoran Association for Health Promotion (ASPS), a non-governmental organization founded in 1985 to promote health education among the poorest communities of El Salvador, particularly those affected by the armed conflict. ASPS works with local communities in the promotion of alternative medicine, nutrition, physical and mental health care, community organization, citizen participation, and advocacy. A medical doctor, Miguel is a member of national and civil organizations working on health and HIV/AIDS issues.

Orlando Navarro is the director of Humanitas Association of Costa Rica, an organization dedicated to improving the quality of life of people living with HIV/AIDS, and to diminishing the further spread of the pandemic in Costa Rica. Since 1994, Humanitas has operated a shelter for people living with AIDS and provides a variety of outreach services to over 200 people affected by HIV, AIDS, and drug dependency, particularly to those in extreme poverty. Orlando has a background in theology, psychology and popular education, and is well recognized for his advocacy work.

Following the conference in Toronto, Horizons will be hosting three local events. On Monday August 21, there will be a roundtable discussion between various members of Ontario AIDS organizations with Miguel and Orlando. The meeting will provide an opportunity for Canadian and Central American organizations to exchange ideas and discuss ongoing North-South coordination on the topics of HIV/AIDS treatment, prevention, and advocacy. Ontario participants in the roundtable include: AIDS Committee of Toronto (ACT); Casey House in Toronto; The AIDS Committee of Durham Region; and Horizons of Friendship. Peterborough AIDS Resource Network (PARN) will be hosting a site visit the following afternoon.

In addition to the exchange, Horizons will be hosting two public events that will provide community members the chance to learn more about HIV/AIDS and the work of Horizons and its partners in the struggle against the disease. On Tuesday August 22, Miguel and Orlando will be giving a public presentation on the work of their organizations. This is an opportunity for Canadians to learn about the epidemic within the region through first-hand accounts of the work being done by local organizations in Costa Rica and El Salvador to combat the spread of the disease, and promote treatment and justice for those living with the illness. The public presentation will take place at Trinity United Church, 15 Chapel Street, Cobourg, between 7pm-9pm.

As part of its summer documentary series, Horizons will be screening The Age of AIDS, an in-depth look at the pandemic that has killed 30 million people, on Wednesday August 23 at the Horizons of Friendship office, 50 Covert Street (2nd Floor). The film will begin at 6:00 pm, and will be followed by a brief analysis on the events of the International AIDS Conference.

Community members and media are encouraged to attend both public events. To schedule interviews with either Miguel or Orlando, please contact Horizons of Friendship.

Join us as we reflect on the reality of HIV/AIDS in Central America, the work being done by local organizations, and what we as Canadians can do in the fight against the disease.