Tulsa, OK

World AIDS Day

Tulsa, Okla – By the time you finish reading this story, another American will have been infected with HIV.

Monday, December 1, 2008 marks the 20th anniversary of World AIDS Day.  On that day, Tulsan’s are invited to gather at 6:00 p.m. for the Tulsa Community World AIDS Day Interfaith Service at Unity Church of Christianity, 3355 S. Jamestown, for a poignant evening grounded in memory to those lost to the disease.

“World AIDS Day is an important way of reminding people that HIV is an ongoing issue that affects thousands in Tulsa and millions around the world,” says Janice Nicklas, director of the Tulsa Community AIDS Partnership.  “It is an honor to join efforts with Tulsa congregations for an annual interfaith service and support the many local care and prevention agencies serving those affected by HIV and AIDS.”

Monday is considered one of the most widely recognized international observances and involves millions of people around the world.  The global theme for 2008 is “Lead - Empower - Deliver.  Stop AIDS.  Keep the Promise.”

Speakers for Tulsa’s event include Shana Cozad, Sharon Thoele, and Stephen Eberle, with special musical appearances by nationally acclaimed singer/songwriter Eric Himan and Tulsa’s own, Sisters in Song.  A panel from the famed AIDS quilt will be on display during the evening’s events and a collection will be taken to benefit the Tulsa Community AIDS Partnership.

“World AIDS Day gives us the opportunity to stop and glance through a global window into other people’s lives — and take notice just how connected we all really are,” says Rev. Chaz Gaut, co-chair of the event and a Chaplain at Unity Church, this years’ host facility.

The service will be followed by a reception with information available on HIV/AIDS organizations and social service agencies around the city.  For more information, please call 697-1664.

Contact:

Chaz Gaut

Co-Chair, World AIDS Day Committee, Tulsa

(918) 747-2273 (Office)

(918) 697-1664 (Cell)

cgaut@hospiceofgreencountry.org