WHEREAS, the global AIDS epidemic requires a coordinated, worldwide effort to increase communication, education and action to stop the spread of HIV/AIDS; and,

WHEREAS, the American Association for World Health encourages better understanding of the HIV/AIDS epidemic, and estimates up to 900,000 people in the United States are now living with the disease; and,

WHEREAS, the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS) observes December 1 of each year as World AIDS Day; a day to expand and strengthen worldwide efforts to stop the spread of HIV/AIDS; and,

WHEREAS, UNAIDS estimates that over 36 million people worldwide are currently living with HIV/AIDS, with young people under the age of 25 accounting for more than half of all new infections; and,

WHEREAS, World AIDS Day provides an opportunity to focus local, national and international attention on HIV infection and AIDS and to disseminate information on how to prevent the spread of HIV, and

WHEREAS, thousands of our friends and loved ones in Leon County and the Big Bend region have been affected by this global epidemic.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF LEON COUNTY, FLORIDA, that December 1, 2001 is declared

WORLD AIDS DAY

In Leon County, Florida, and that the Board of County Commissioners encourages education, awareness, tolerance and love in response to this continuing public health crisis. Let this global observance remind us to reach out to our friends, neighbors and loved ones in this community who's lives have been touched by this worldwide epidemic. We encourage all citizens to support activities and observances designed to increase awareness and understanding of HIV/AIDS as a global challenge, to take part in HIV/AIDS prevention activities and programs, and to support Big Bend Cares, Incorporated, the Big Bend region's only HIV/AIDS support services provider, and the leader in HIV prevention education in our community.DATED THIS 1st DAY OF DECEMBER, A.D., 2001