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Today, Wednesday, December 1, is the twenty-third annual recognition of World AIDS Day. World AIDS Day began in 1988 as a means of raising money and awareness about HIV and AIDS, fighting prejudice against those who are HIV positive or who have AIDS, and improving HIV and AIDS education.

This year’s theme is Universal Access and Human Rights. Leaders around the globe acknowledge as fundamental human rights access to HIV and AIDS treatment, prevention, and care. Violations of these rights put marginalized groups at greater risk of contracting HIV and being discriminated against for being HIV-positive or having AIDS.

Although there has been promising news recently about potential preventative medication, it’s important to recognize that AIDS hasn’t gone away. According to UNAIDS, approximately 33.3 million people are living with HIV, including 2.5 million children. In 2009, as many as 2.6 million people became infected with the virus, and approximately 1.8 million people died from illness and complications related to AIDS.

You can learn more by visiting the World AIDS Campaign page.

What else can you do? Help raise awareness by wearing a red ribbon in memory of the more than 25 million people lost to AIDS since the epidemic began, and in recognition of those living today with HIV. Find activities in your area, including candlelight vigils, art shows, marches, and religious services.

Click here for Houston activities.