Explanation
Title
To designate June 27, 2008 as "National HIV Testing Day" in Columbus, Ohio.
Body
WHEREAS, June 27, 2008 is the annual observance of National HIV Testing Day; and
WHEREAS, the goal of National Testing Day is to encourage individuals to take advantage of voluntary HIV counseling and testing and prevention services and to access medical care if they test HIV-positive; and
WHEREAS, National HIV Testing Day is sponsored by National Association of People with AIDS (NAPWA) and endorsed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to mobilize community based organizations and stakeholders involved in HIV/AIDS prevention, care and treatment; and
WHEREAS, Two thousand nine hundred thirty-nine (2,939) men, women and children in Central Ohio are living with HIV; and
WHEREAS, the Columbus Regional Advisory Group and the Central Ohio HIV/AIDS Consortium, are jointly hosting community events to recognize this day and its importance to all concerned citizens; and
WHEREAS, it is fitting that we join with these national and local groups to express our strong support for National HIV Testing Day and the initiative to prevent the spread of HIV; now, therefore,
BE IT RESOLVED BY THE COLUMBUS CITY COUNCIL
That we do hereby designate June 27, 2008, as National HIV Testing Day in Columbus, Ohio, and urge local residents to strongly support this day and participate in events planned to commemorate the occasion.