Congresswoman Waters Statement on World AIDS Day

Congresswoman Maxine Waters (D-CA) issued the following statement in recognition of World AIDS Day today:

"On World AIDS Day, we unite in solidarity worldwide in the fight against HIV/AIDS. We show support for people living with the disease and commemorate those who have died. We stand together to raise awareness about the epidemic so we can prevent further spread of the virus and give hope to the 33.4 million people internationally living with HIV/AIDS.

"In the United States alone, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that over one million people are HIV positive, and one in five of those infected are unaware of it. We must make a determined effort to tackle the devastating spread of HIV/AIDS among our youth and minority communities. According to a new report released this week by the CDC, young people between the ages of 13 and 24 represent more than a quarter of new HIV infections each year. And HIV/AIDS is one of the leading causes of death for both African-Americans and Hispanics.

"Working with my colleagues in the House and Senate, I have been a leading proponent of legislation to increase funding and research to combat HIV/AIDS and to help those affected by the disease. I have authored legislation and supported policies that fight HIV/AIDS, including encouraging involvement by clinicians and nurses; promoting routine HIV testing; protecting minorities and other vulnerable populations; and preserving and expanding treatment services for low-income and uninsured Americans living with HIV/AIDS.

"Each year, we are all a bit more encouraged by research advances that will someday lead to a cure, but we are nowhere near the finish line we seek in dominating this devastating illness. We must address HIV/AIDS directly by promoting routine HIV testing and prevention and by making treatment for the infected more accessible and more affordable.

"In the spirit of World AIDS Day, while we remember those who have succumbed to the disease, let us not forget the struggle that still remains before us. Let's recommit ourselves to caring for individuals living with HIV/AIDS and rededicate ourselves to finding a cure."

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