We live in the land of denial. Americans have been turning a blind eye to world hunger, mass genocide, and political tyranny for many decades now. Thus, it should come as no surprise that responding to the AIDS epidemic has not been the number one item on our national agenda. In fact, most of us are under the wrong impression that by driving eco-friendly hybrids, wearing organic cotton, and condemning Nike products we are helping save the world. Think again. In the time it takes to read this sentence, a young person between the ages of 15-24 will be infected with HIV/AIDS; a deadly virus for which there is no cure.

A post-modern epidemic is lurking in the shadows and we are scared to acknowledge its existence. In economically impoverished countries AIDS is claiming more lives than conventional warfare. Infected people are dropping like flies, while national governments are clamoring to cover up the magnitude of the tragedy. Africa is now a barren country infested with disease and desperation. But let’s face it, AIDS is not confined only to a far away continents, inhabited by peoples of different races, religions, and nationalities. You too could have AIDS and not know it.

According to James Moody, associate professor of sociology at Ohio State University in Columbus, “If you had one partner in the last year; you could be linked up to about 20 percent of the people in your city.”

Upon reading this jarring information, I took a moment to let the gravity of the situation sink in. Indeed, the simple facts are frightening, but thinking about the broader implications, I realize the real picture could be much worse. For one thing, as anyone who has gone to college or watched Sex & the City would agree, many young, single, and independent people have frequent and promiscuous sex. I personally admit to having countless friends who have had multiple partners in a month.

The monogamous types are not safe either (for more information read my recently published article titled, Cheaters Inc.). It is a remote yet legitimate possibility that your ‘exclusive’ boyfriend or wife of 15 years could be sleeping all over town. Considering every time you make love, you are in effect sleeping with everyone your partner has been intimate with; your bedroom might be much more crowded than you think.

If you are sexually active, you may be at risk, but that is not to say you are helpless. It is possible to attack and eradicate the HIV/AIDS problem both at the personal and global level. You start by practicing safe sex (always with latex condoms) and getting tested. Kimberly Yarnall, M.D., associate professor of community and family medicine at Duke University in Durham, North Carolina says, “Women get comfortable with a new partner, so they stop using condoms after about a month,” and she adds, “You should use condoms for at least six months, then get tested for HIV and other STDs. If you are negative at that point, you should be safe.”

Ironically, many fear the HIV test like the black plague. People who avoid it claim ignorance is bliss. Well, not in this case. If in fact you are infected with HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) you can get treatment and stay healthier longer. Also, when you know the truth, you can take steps to avoid passing the disease on to other people.

Voluntary HIV/AIDS testing and counseling (VCT) centers make their services available to people in need. Remember, knowledge can save and at the very least prolong your life.

For HIV/AIDS advice and testing contact:

1800-BE SAFE (237 -2331)
CDC AIDS Hotline: 1-800-342-2437
NPIN: 1-800-458-5231
GMHC: 1-800-AIDSNYC (2437692) or 1-212-807-8655

“The Hear No Evil. See No Evil. Speak No Evil.” campaign seeks to break the silence about HIV/AIDS, educate and empower young people on a global level. The intrusive and haunting black and white images of stars like, Salma Hayek, Ashley Judd, Christina Aguilera, Cindy Crawford, Penelope Cruz , LL Cool J, Elijah Wood, and Josh Lucas, shot by famous photographer Peter Lindbergh, hope to raise international awareness about HIV/AIDS. Also, the “Empowerment Tags” engraved with the words, “Hear”, “See”, and “Shout” on the one side and the AIDS ribbon on the other, sold for $5 at ALDO stores will be donating 100% its proceeds to programs benefiting youth AIDS. You donations could help save the next generation.

Remember, ominous silence, mass ignorance, and international inaction are destroying humanity and only by speaking out and taking a stand you can make a difference. So please have a little compassion.

For more information please log on to http://www.youthaids.org/awareness.html