Health - HIV / AIDS

HIV / AIDS

Statements and Letters - Archive

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World AIDS Day
December 1, 1999

Rep. Henry A. Waxman

Today is a day for us to remember, and a day to recommit ourselves to ending the AIDS epidemic. This year, more than 2.5 million people around the world died from AIDS, more than in any other year since the epidemic began almost twenty years ago. More than ever, the epidemic is devastating communities across our planet. Progress has been made, but progress is not only measured by steps taken -- it is measured by the length of the road ahead. Deaths from AIDS have fallen in our country, but both new infections and a dangerous complancency is on the rise. There have been important treatment advances, but there is still no cure. Most troubling of all, the treatment gap is widening for the poor and for communities of color in America. On this day, all Americans should dedicate themselves to facing these challenges, fighting discrimination and ending the epidemic. On the cusp of the new millennium, let us be mindful of the needs and courage of all persons with HIV/AIDS, committing ourselves to the promise of the Psalms, "When he calls for me, I will answer him; I will be with him in distress." (Psalms 91:15)