DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR
WORLD AIDS DAY CEREMONY
Mistress of Ceremony
E. Melodee Stith
Director, Office for Equal Opportunity
E. Melodee Stith opened the event with a warm welcome and introduced the theme "Children and Young People: Listen, Learn, Live," that set the tone for the event. She conveyed that the theme reflects that by reaching out to children and young people, we can help prevent the spread of HIV and AIDS. In addition to introducing the speakers, Ms. Stith explained the significance of the AIDS Memorial Quilt and the Red Ribbons.
The event was held in front of a 10 by 10 foot panel of the hand made AIDS Memorial Quilt. One person commented that the quilt was so powerful that you could feel the sorrow, anger, love, and hope of the people who made it. There was also a display of memorial boards for people to sign the names of friends, family and loved ones who have HIV or AIDS, as well as those who have died of AIDS. As employees and other participants entered the lobby, they were given a Red Ribbon, which is an international symbol of AIDS awareness.
The AIDS Memorial Quilt is the largest ongoing community arts project in the world. There are more than 42,960 colorful panels in the quilt. Each was made to remember the life of a person lost to AIDS and there are tens of thousands of people whose names are sewn into the fabric. Panels are three feet by six feet. As the AIDS epidemic claims more lives, the Quilt continues to grow. As well as being an international symbol of AIDS awareness, the Red Ribbon is increasingly being worn by people all year round to demonstrate their care and concern about HIV and AIDS, and to remind others of their support and commitment.
