Mon, May 16 (MExN): The 33rd International AIDS Candlelight Memorial was observed in Mon Town and Mokokchung Town with the theme “Engage, Educate, Empower” on May 15.
At the event held at Ao Baptist Church Mon Town, Longyim Tzudir, DPO, DAPCU Mon, mentioned that the day is observed to honour those who have lost their lives to HIV. The day also serves as a community mobilization campaign to raise social consciousness about HIV and AIDS, breaking down barriers of stigma and discrimination, and giving hope to new generations, he added, according to a press release received here.
Highlighting that many people living with HIV are facing fear of stigma and discrimination, lack of access to care, support and treatment, he urged everyone to realize and educate people on prevention, care and treatment of HIV and to encourage people living with HIV to get involved for better response.
Besides presentation of special songs from Rashtra Bhasha Hindi Training Institute Mon and Youth Department of Gorkha Baptist Church Mon, short speeches were delivered by Sashi, Secretary, MUN and Dr. Yingnei K, MO i/c LAC+, DH Mon. In Mokokchung, the programme was held at Network of Mokokchung District People Living with HIV/AIDs (NMP+) office, organized by NMP+, DAPCU, ARTC, CSS, and CCC. Tianenla and T Temsu Jamir, President (NMP+) shared the significance of the day during devotional service at Artang Baptist Church and Tondentsuyong Baptist Church youth service, a press release informed. The programme was followed by lighting of candles.
