Dec. 1 is World AIDS Day, and it’s a cause that’s been near and dear to our hearts at Cempa Community Care since our founding in the 1980s. In remembrance of those who lost their lives to AIDS and in celebration of advancements made over the past 40+ years, we wanted to take a moment to share a little about our own history, the history of World AIDS Day, and a few encouraging facts about HIV and AIDS treatment in 2022.

About Cempa Community Care

Cempa was originally founded in 1986 as Chattanooga CARES (Council on AIDS, Resources, Education, and Support) in response to the AIDS epidemic of the 1980s and 90s. Since that time, HIV/AIDS has claimed the lives of hundreds of thousands across the United States, particularly in the era during which Chattanooga CARES was founded; an HIV diagnosis was considered a death sentence due to the lack of treatment options available.

Because of misinformation and fear, attitudes toward individuals with HIV or AIDS were often poor. In fact, Gallup reports that during the epidemic, 21% of Americans who knew a gay person were “less comfortable around that person since learning about AIDS,” and that by 1986, 44% of Americans surveyed responded saying “they or someone they knew had avoided places where homosexuals might be present as a precaution to avoid contracting AIDS.”

Misconceptions about HIV and AIDS led to the ostracization of people living with the condition, as well as the gay community at large — and that’s where Chattanooga CARES. stepped in.

Community advocates, friends, and family members of those impacted by HIV came together to fight for a cure, for shared understanding, and for the dignity of their loved ones.

About World AIDS Day

The first World AIDS Day took place in 1988 and was founded by the World Health Organization (WHO). Much like Chattanooga CARES, the WHO established the observance to advocate for a cure. In their own words, “[World AIDS Day] is an opportunity for public and private partners to spread awareness about the status of the pandemic and encourage progress in HIV/AIDS prevention, treatment, and care around the world.”

One of the most notable symbols of World AIDS Day is the red ribbon, which was instituted in 1991. Show your support this year by donning your red ribbon on Dec. 1.

Hope for a Cure

We are thrilled to say that in 2022, HIV is no longer a death sentence. Men and women who receive an HIV diagnosis can live full, vibrant lives. Many people are unaware that modern treatment for HIV can suppress the disease to the point that the virus is undetectable and therefore, untransmittable. 

Despite these advancements, it’s critical to gain an early diagnosis to prevent disease progression. Cempa is proud to connect community members to much-needed testing and compassionate, comprehensive care post-diagnosis.

Cempa Community Care hosts fundraisers, offers HIV testing and treatment, and works tirelessly to support those impacted by HIV. If you or someone you know is in need of testing or support services, we are here to help. Visit our HIV Healthcare page to learn more.