Today is dedicated to raising awareness of the AIDS pandemic that has plauged the world since the 80's.  Since 1981 more than 25 million people have died from AIDS and it is estimated that more than 33 million people worldwide are currently living with HIV/AIDS.

Today is the day that I spend time thinking about the many friends that I've lost to AIDS and the numerous friends that are currently suffering with HIV.

Each year the World AIDS Day orgnization forms a "theme" for the years events, this year is Universal Access and Human Rights.  New data has shown that HIV is the number one killer of women of reproductive age - worldwide!

Many good things have happened recently, like the repeal of the HIV entry ban in October for visitors and immigrants who were HIV or AIDS.  But much more work is needed, just yesterday several global AIDS and Africa solidarity organizations slapped the White House with a D+ rating on the work that President Obama has done so far in office to help combat HIV.

Take some time today to read stories that have been submitted to the World AIDS Day website.

Stop by the Center on Halsted this morning at 10AM for an unveiling of a tapestry commissioned by the Center that was made by a woman who is part of the Keiskamma Art Project in South Africa, a project designed to support a community ravaged by AIDS.  The tapestry will adorn the lobby at the Center.

What are you doing to help stop the AIDS pandemic?  Remember, love generously, protect yourself, educate others and get tested - know your status!