Today marks twenty years of World AIDS Day awareness and commemoration. Honest question though: does today mark twenty years of progress in being able to discuss sexuality, gender, poverty, and privilege in a mature fashion, without fear of reproach? Or is the VHS tape still looping “Just Say No!” hypnotically, drowning out the personal, spiritual work of, “Just ask why”? Why do we still not know this disease’s real origin? Why can’t we love each other as we are, without bowing the knee to “no fats or fems/no old people/height-weight proportionate (HWP)/etc..” crap in our magazines, movies, and clothing stores? Why do our pride event organizers accept funding from pharmaceutical vendors as if we’re truly working for the same goal? Why would I spend roundabout $5 dollars on a coffee drink so Big Coffee Company can send that same $5 money to fight AIDS? All you had to say was “I voted” a month ago and you got a free cup. Can’t you just give the money directly to (RED) and get the same thing?
Perhaps at the following events, you should wear your red ribbons upside down so more of us will ask why.
Various events are happening throughout the city and throughout the week, including:
Art Exhibit featuring art from Dallas resident & artist Christopher McKee, being sold silent auction style with respectable starting bid at South Side at Lamar (1409 S. Lamar) tonight from 7pm to 9pm. Food, beverages, live entertainment, and special guest appearances and performances throughout the night.
$10.00 suggested donation at the door with all donations and 50% art sales benefiting the Resource Center of Dallas.
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The North Texas HIV Services Providers Council invites everyone to a special program commemorating World AIDS Day 2008 called, “One Candle Finds the Way”, on Friday, December 5, at the Hilton Anatole Hotel. For more info and to make reservations, open this .PDF brochure. Note: Reservations must be made by today, December 1.
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[hat tip to Herukhuti of Black Funk, Inc. for enlightenment through your book, Conjuring Black Funk]
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