FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT:
Kristia Winter, Communications Director
KWinter@council.nyc.gov, 718-629-2900

NEW YORK – Council Member Farah Louis (D-Brooklyn) issued the following statement to commemorate World AIDS Day, which is observed annually on December 1.

STATEMENT BY COUNCIL MEMBER LOUIS

“Today, we remember those we lost, stand in solidarity with 38 million people worldwide who live with HIV, and reflect on the progress that we have made to move closer towards our goal of an AIDS-free generation.

“Ending the HIV/AIDS epidemic means creating safe spaces to openly speak about HIV, while encouraging everyone to get tested and know your status.

“This year, recognizing World AIDS Day will require additional effort due to the ongoing challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“In addition to responding to the COVID-19 pandemic, my office partnered with organizations such as CAMBA and the Haitian-American Community Coalition (HCC) to provide free in-person and in-home HIV testing kits, PrEP prescriptions, and counseling services that ensure everyone has access to care and support services in the midst of social distancing.

“I am proud to represent and serve a diverse community who deserve to have the resources that they need to live authentically.

“Let’s stop the HIV epidemic together by amplifying the preventative measures, ending the stigma against people living with HIV, and offering critical support that helps everyone thrive.”

New York City Council Member Farah N. Louis represents the 45th Council District, which comprises Flatbush, East Flatbush, Midwood, Marine Park, Flatlands, & Kensington in Brooklyn, NY. She is a member of the committees on Civil Service and Labor; Economic Development; Education; Finance; Housing and Buildings; Youth Services; and Justice System. Council Member Louis is the Co-Chair of the Women’s Caucus and Vice Co-Chair of the Black, Latino/a, and Asian Caucus.

###