The African American AIDS Awareness Action Alliance (A6)

 

The African American AIDS Awareness Action Alliance (A6) is a coalition of several community based organizations, Multnomah County Health Department and community members who have partnered collectively for over seven years to increase awareness about the impact of the HIV/AIDS disparity among the Portland African American community.  Through innovative initiatives, targeted education, providing resources, erasing stigma, changing community norms, and HIV testing we seek to engage and empower community members.

In the past 25 years the impact of HIV/AIDS has become most severe among the African American community.  While African Americans make up a small part of our U.S. population (13%) they make up a large part of HIV/AIDS cases (49%).  Locally, African Americans are 2% of Oregon’s population but account for 8% of Oregon’s HIV/AIDS diagnosis. 

 

A6 sponsors and hosts several events throughout the year that are aimed at increasing awareness and reducing HIV infection rates. 

 

Scheduled Events:

 

National HIV Testing Day

 

June 27th is National HIV Testing Day and we have planned several events including poetry and open-mic night at the OHM (6/26) where the theme for the evening will be HIV and AIDS; a Hip-Hop Party and Adult Carnival at the Blue Dragon Fly (6/27) where we will offer free HIV Testing all night and award prizes; and an information and resources booth at Good in the Neighborhood (6/28 & 6/29)

 

For details about National HIV Testing Day call Khalil @ 503.417.7991 or check out the website:

knowsexpdx.com

 

 

 

National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day

 

On February 7, 2009 A6 will be sponsoring a Talent Showcase in recognition of National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day.  Last year’s inaugural Art Contest was a huge success and this year promises to be even better.  We encourage everyone from the community, young and old, to get involved by either entering the Talent Showcase are helping plan the event.

 

For details about the Talent Showcase please call Khalil @ 503.417.7991 or check out the website: knowsexpdx.com