(OTTAWA) – The Green Party of Canada released the following statement in recognition of World AIDS Day and the launch of Aboriginal AIDS Awareness Week, which takes place from December 1-6.
“HIV/AIDS continues to have an enormous impact on millions of people around the world, including tens of thousands of Canadians. Canada must be investing more into preventive measures to ensure that rates of infection significantly decline,” said Elizabeth May, Leader of the Green Party of Canada (MP, Saanich-Gulf Islands).
“A disproportionate number of Indigenous Canadians – who are 2.7 times more likely to contract HIV – are impacted by the virus. A lingering stigma around those who have HIV/AIDS in Canada persists, which has further marginalized many of those suffering from the virus. There is absolutely no reason to fear anyone living with HIV/AIDS. Further education must be put into addressing this very harmful stigma,” continued Ms. May.
“I am disturbed by the significant cuts in funding to the Canadian Aboriginal AIDS Network, and call upon the Liberal government to reverse those cuts. Furthermore, Canada must provide culturally relevant support and services for Indigenous Canadians suffering with HIV/AIDS, and universal access to effective treatments for all Canadians, including traditional medicines and ceremonies for Indigenous peoples,” concluded Ms. May.
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For additional information or to arrange an interview, contact:
Debra Eindiguer
m: (613) 240-8921
debra.eindiguer@greenparty.ca