Today is the 34th annual World AIDS Day, a time to honor and remember those we have lost to the HIV/AIDS epidemic and advocate for those living with and at risk of contracting HIV.
During the darkest days of the epidemic, AIDS ravaged underserved communities that already faced discrimination from systems of power – including health care. LGBTQIA+ people, BIPOC individuals, people who used injection drugs, sex workers, and those experiencing homelessness were all too often met with bigotry from the institutions that were supposed to be offering comfort.
Fenway Health was one of the few health care facilities at the time treating patients with dignity and respect instead of fear. In fact, the first HIV diagnosis in New England was made right here at Fenway Health in 1981. This legacy of compassionate care – even in the face of so much suffering and hatred – is the very core of Fenway’s mission.
Since then, Fenway Health has become New England’s largest provider of outpatient HIV related care, regardless of a patient’s ability to pay. Every day, we work to prevent new HIV infections, fight discrimination, advocate for governmental policies that positively change the HIV landscape, provide care and treatment, research vaccines and other prevention tools and strategies, and help those who are living with or at risk for contracting HIV live better lives.
To mark World AIDS Day this year, we invite you to join us tonight for a free showing of powerful film 5B. 5B is the inspirational story of everyday heroes, nurses and caregivers who took extraordinary action to comfort, protect and care for the patients of the first AIDS ward unit in the United States.
When: Dec 1st 6 – 8:30 PM
Where: Fenway Health, 1340 Boylston St
Light refreshments will be served. Stay after the movie for candid conversation featuring survivors, and Fenway Health leadership.
Click here to RSVP and reserve your seat at the event.