The Department of Public Health and Social Services (DPHSS) will join community partners in observing World AIDS Day with two public events aimed at honoring lives lost to HIV/AIDS and reaffirming the island’s commitment to ending the epidemic. The 38th annual commemoration will be held under the theme, “Remember. Honor. Hope.”
The observance begins with a Vigil Service on Sunday, November 30, from 4 to 5 p.m. at St. John Episcopal Church in Upper Tumon, followed by a Community Wave on Monday, December 1, from 4:30 to 6 p.m. at the ITC Intersection in Tamuning. Both events are open to the public and will serve as a call to action to eliminate stigma and support those living with HIV.
DPHSS noted that while medical research and access to treatment and prevention—such as HIV PrEP—have significantly advanced over the past 38 years, continued advocacy is vital. The agency emphasized the importance of equitable access to care, ongoing education, and remembrance of those who lost their lives to the disease.
Residents seeking information on HIV prevention, treatment, and care services can contact the DPHSS STD/HIV/Viral Hepatitis Program at (671) 635-7494 or visit dphss.guam.gov.
