U.S. Rep. Karen Bass Statement in Recognition of World AIDS Day

Press Release

Today, Congresswoman Karen Bass (D-CA), Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Africa, Global Health and Human Rights released the following statement in recognition of World AIDS Day which will take place tomorrow:

"Tomorrow marks the 19^th annual World AIDS Day where again we come together to reflect and recommit ourselves to continuing the fight around the world to save future generations from this terrible disease.

Through education, investments and medical advancements we have been able to make significant progress in saving lives impacted by HIV and AIDS. We've greatly improved prevention efforts and fought against the stigma and discrimination those living with AIDS sometimes face, particularly in Africa.

Over the past decade, new HIV infections have dropped by more than half in 25 low-and-middle income countries mostly located in Sub-Saharan Africa. Countries like Zimbabwe, Namibia and Malawi have recently seen particularly sharp declines for new HIV infections.

Secretary Clinton said it best this week when she unveiled the Obama Administration's blueprint for an AIDS-free generation -- we can in fact reach a point where virtually no child is born infected with HIV and those who do contract the disease have access to treatments that prevent them from developing AIDS as well as passing along the virus to others.

I offer my support to the millions of activist and survivors across the globe who are fighting to keep us headed in the right direction in the global fight against AIDS."

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