Hundreds pay homage to the victims of HIV/AIDS

Dec 02, 2009 News

As Guyana remembers the fallen, infected and affected…
As has become traditional, hundreds assembled outside the National Cultural Centre last evening to support the annual event put on by Artistes in Direct Support. Earlier in the day Guyana had joined the world in observing World AIDS Day with various forms of exhibitions, lectures and showcases but theatre played its role in information dissemination last evening at the NCC.
Amidst reports that more than 13,000 people are living with full blown AIDS in Guyana and that many more are affected by the dreaded Human Immuno Virus, last evening there were many for the now annual theatre production of ‘The Flame and the Ribbon’.
As a prelude, the whispers and open conversations from those gathered offered mixed emotions.
As a run up to the event nationally, hundreds of pamphlets with information on HIV/AIDS and condoms were handed out by various local Governmental and non-governmental organizations
By 19:00hrs last evening the numbers grew significantly to again soak up the theatrical offerings of the ‘Don’t test me,’ Artistes in Direct Support AIDS stage play.
The initiative began in 1992.
Desiree Edghill, director of Artistes in Direct Support (AIDS) penned and directed the night’s main feature. She led the way by lighting a candle with members of her group. Before long the masses were sticking candles into the sand box shaping out the famous HIV/AIDS emblem (ribbon).
Then at 20:00hrs they flocked to the doorway to enjoy the opportunity of theatre entertainment and education through the play that provided a chance for soul searching of a serious nature. And the cast of eight did deliver.
The ceremonial flame was lit in the form of candles in remembrance and in support of persons living with or affected by HIV/AIDS.
Explaining the idea that began in Guyana in 1992, Edghill said, “We light candles and invite people to do the same for family, relatives and friends infected and affected by HIV or in memory of those who died as a result of the complications associated with AIDS.”
Developed against the backdrop of the ‘Universal access and human rights,’ the World AIDS day theme, Edghill through her actors craftily addressed the issue of finding out that people are HIV positive after getting married.
The cast included Kijana Lewis who played the lead male role while Lavern Fredericks was the lead female actress. The other actors included Clemencio Goddet, Merica George, Cilandel Glen, Tisha Levius, Abiola Kirton and Aewha Accra.
World AIDS Day provides the opportunity for individuals, communities and political leaders to take action and ensure that human rights are protected and global targets for HIV/AIDS prevention, treatment and care are met.
However, up to the time that Kaieteur News left the venues there were no sign of any popular politician. Notable at the ceremony was the fact that women far outnumbered men and children.

(Mondale Smith)

Latest News

Hundreds pay homage to the victims of HIV/AIDS

Related

Similar Articles

The Glenn Lall Show|| February, 7th, 2025

Follow on Tik Tok @Glennlall

THE BLUNT OF THE DAY

Sports

Ken Corsbie – a Guyana Basketball legend passes at 94

Imlach masterclass 126, Alimohamed 66-ball 77,...

Fraser rebounds well, as Arjoon keeps perfect...

Guyana to host historic 3×3 Quest Tournament

Quarter-Finals in Mashramani Street Football...

Vurlon Mills Football Academy launches KFC...

Features/Columnists

Due diligence on investments must become a priority

OAS Secretary General Election and renewed OAS Consensus

Awestruck and starstruck with a twist

Publisher’s Note

Weekend Cartoon

Bridge Watch

Demerara Harbour Bridge

> Berbice Bridge […]

Hundreds pay homage to the victims of HIV/AIDS

Share this:

Related

Similar Articles

The Glenn Lall Show|| February, 7th, 2025

Follow on Tik Tok @Glennlall

THE BLUNT OF THE DAY

Sports

Features/Columnists

Publisher’s Note

Weekend Cartoon

Bridge Watch

Demerara Harbour Bridge

> Berbice Bridge […]