The International AIDS Candlelight Memorial is a time for all of us to remember the many lives lost to AIDS. It is an opportunity to honour those who dedicated their lives to helping people living with and affected by HIV and continue to mobilize our communities in solidarity. People living with HIV started the International AIDS Candlelight Memorial in 1983 and since then there have been thousands of events organized across the world by community-based organizations, from motorbike rallies by women living with HIV to uplifting ceremonies in places of worship and workplaces. Such events have helped raise awareness about HIV and more importantly have helped break down stigma within our communities.As the world deals with the coronavirus pandemic we must support our families and communities to stay healthy. COVID-19 has made it difficult for us to have traditional public gathering. As we remember those we have lost, let us take actions that are safe so that we live beyond COVID-19 and HIV. This year we encourage you to mark this day as individuals rather than in gatherings (unless it is safe in your country to do so). Please follow the guidance of your government and the World Health Organization, in order to prioritize the health and safety of all involved.
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