Morung Express News
Zunheboto | May 17
Calling for greater compassion, awareness, and collective responsibility in addressing HIV-related stigma and discrimination, a speaker living with HIV shared a message of hope and resilience during the 43rd International AIDS Candlelight Memorial Service observed in Zunheboto.
Addressing the gathering, the speaker said, “Today, as we gather for the International AIDS Candlelight Memorial Service, we come together not only to remember those we have lost, but also to honour those who continue to live with courage, strength, and hope.”
Reflecting on the past, the speaker noted that HIV was once shrouded in fear, stigma, and silence, causing many individuals to suffer not only from health challenges but also from rejection, discrimination, and social isolation.
Remembering those who lost their lives, the speaker said, “As we light these candles, we remember every precious life lost too soon—friends, family members, healthcare workers, and community members who fought bravely.” The speaker added that their memories continue to inspire efforts toward building a more compassionate, informed, and inclusive society.
Sharing a message of hope, the speaker emphasised that HIV is not the end of life. “With timely treatment, care, and support, people living with HIV (PLHIV) can lead healthy, productive, and meaningful lives,” the speaker said, noting that antiretroviral therapy has transformed HIV from a life-threatening condition into a manageable chronic health condition for many.
At the same time, the speaker stressed that stigma remains one of the biggest barriers to prevention, testing, treatment, and care.
“What PLHIV need most is acceptance, respect, and support from society,” the speaker said, while also stressing the importance of confidentiality, unity among PLHIV, and mutual support and encouragement.
Encouraging young people to stay informed and act responsibly, the speaker added, “Knowledge saves lives,” while urging them to reject misinformation, stigma, and discrimination.
The speaker also expressed gratitude to families, caregivers, healthcare workers, NGOs, churches, and community leaders for their continued commitment and support.
Concluding on a hopeful note, the speaker said, “Today’s memorial is not only about remembrance. It is also about hope—hope for stronger communities, greater awareness, an end to stigma, and a future free from new HIV transmissions.”
Calling on society to replace fear with understanding and judgment with compassion, the speaker added, “Every life matters, every person deserves dignity, and no one should walk alone in the journey of living with HIV.”
