Media Release

For: Immediate Release
Date: November 26, 2002
Contact: Paul G. Loberti, MPH, Chief Administrator 
Office of HIV & AIDS 222-2320

Red Ribbon Rally World AIDS Week 2002
December 6, 2002

It is with great pleasure that the Rhode Island Department of Health announces the third annual Red Ribbon Rally on 6 December 2002. Co –sponsoring organizations/groups include AIDS Care Rhode Island; AIDS Project Rhode Island; AIDS Quilt, Rhode Island; the Rhode Island Community Planning Group for HIV Prevention; and, India Point Project. Last year well over 450 people attended for a peaceful, symbolic day that united people from all over the state around the issues of HIV.

As you shall see from the program of the event to follow, we are challenging citizens of the state to come to the state house on World AIDS Day at 11:45. At that time we ask they sign the largest known AIDS red ribbon in the world with a special message, receive a complimentary red ribbon pin and listen to entertainers and key speakers address the state of the state for HIV. The program will conclude with a heartfelt closing ceremony where participants will be asked to circle the state house rotunda by unfolding the giant red ribbon together (It presently has over 800 signatures and messages!!!).

We urge you to assist us in making this day one that remembers that the essential components of HIV are to Prepare… our youth, Prevent.. it from happening, and Protect… everyone equally.

We are certain this event will prove to help us unify around the importance of HIV in our community and would like to cordially invite all media to attend.

We are challenging all Rhode Island residents to attend. We believe if we are successful, we can send a message that HIV and AIDS is still an important issue for all Rhode Islanders. Due to the anticipated large attendance that day, we ask that press personnel call 222.2320 to confirm your presence at the "Red Ribbon Rally." Special press seating will be made available only on a reserved basis.