HR0730 97TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY

HR0730 LRB097 19467 GRL 64720 r

HOUSE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, February 7, 2012, marks the 12th year of the commemoration and observance of National African-American HIV/AIDS Awareness Day; and

WHEREAS, This observance is a nationwide effort to mobilize African-American communities to get educated, get tested, get involved, and get treated for HIV/AIDS, as it continues to devastate African-American communities; and

WHEREAS, National African-American HIV/AIDS Awareness Day is directed, planned, and strategically implemented by HIV/AIDS organizations to mobilize community-based organizations and stakeholders involved in HIV/AIDS prevention, care, and treatment; and

WHEREAS, Nearly 60,000 residents of Illinois are living with HIV and 55% of reported HIV diagnoses are African-Americans; and

WHEREAS, Among African-Americans ages 25-44, HIV was the fourth leading cause of death for men and third leading cause of death for women, higher than any other racial group; and

WHEREAS, Numerous organizations, faith based institutions, public health entities, and impacted citizens are hosting community events to recognize this day and its importance to African-Americans and all concerned citizens; and

WHEREAS, It is fitting that we join with these local, national, and international groups to express our strong support for National African-American HIV/AIDS Awareness Day and the initiatives to prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS in African-American communities, and provide access to HIV/AIDS prevention, treatment, and support services to those affected by HIV/AIDS; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF THE NINETY-SEVENTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we designate the date of February 7, 2012 as National African-American HIV/AIDS Awareness Day in Illinois, and encourage local residents to strongly support this day and participate in events planned to commemorate the occasion.