World Aids Day 2018: Why are MPs wearing red ribbons?
WORLD Aids Day is held worldwide to remember those people who have died or are living with an AIDS-related illness - but why are MPs sporting red ribbons in the lead-up to this year’s commemoration?
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World Aids Day 2018 takes place on Saturday, December 1. This year marks the 30th anniversary of the fundraising awareness event aimed at tackling discrimination against affected people. World Aids Day is also held in recognition of people living with HIV. About 5,000 people are diagnosed with the life-threatening virus every year in the UK.
However, an estimated 8,200 people, or eight per cent, of the 102,000 people with the condition are not aware they are affected.
Why are MPs wearing red ribbons?
In the lead up to World Aids Day this weekend, many MPs have been spotted wearing red ribbons as a symbolic gesture.
The red ribbon is the global symbol used in support of people living with HIV - much like the poppy is the emblem used as a mark of remembrance for the war dead.
Red ribbons can be purchased for a suggested £1 donation from the Worlds Aids Day website or selected retailers.
This year Morrisons, MAC and selected branches of HSBC will be selling them.
But you can also order 100 red ribbons online free of charge from the Worlds Aids Day website.
Fabric ribbons are usually worn but sparkly brooches are also available.
The colour red is used because of its vibrancy and association with love and the heart.
Where did the idea of red ribbons come from?
The red ribbon began in 1991 by twelve artists in East Village, New York, who camee together to discuss awareness opportunities for people living with HIV.
At the time stigma against people with the condition was prevalent.
Since then attitudes have improved vastly but many people with HIV still face ignorance and prejudice on a daily basis.
In good news, statistics out today from Public Health England (PHE) show the UK is one of the first countries anywhere in the world to meet global targets in tackling HIV.
The 2020 90-90-90 benchmark aims to ensure 90 percent of people with HIV are diagnosed, 90 percent receive antiretroviral treatment and 90 percent of those treated receive viral suppression.
The UK met this target last year reaching levels of 92 percent, 98 percent and 97 percent respectively.