World AIDS Day and Indigenous AIDS Awareness Week
On December 1, York Region Public Health joins communities across Canada in recognizing World AIDS Day and the start of Indigenous AIDS Awareness Week.
This year’s theme is Overcoming disruption, transforming the AIDS response, addressing global cuts to HIV/AIDS programs that can have local effects, making it even more important that we advocate for continued investment, accurate information and inclusive care.
In recognition of World AIDS Day, we honour individuals and communities impacted by HIV/AIDs. We celebrate every victory—from advancements in treatment to community-led initiatives that save lives and reduce transmission. And we commit to the road ahead increasing access to inclusive and culturally safe care for all. Together, through compassion and awareness, we can end stigma and move closer to ending AIDS in Canada and beyond.
Indigenous AIDS Awareness Week (IAAW) happens annually from December 1 to 7, starting on World AIDS Day. It’s organized by CAAN Communities, Alliances & Networks to help people learn about HIV/AIDS—how to prevent it, get tested, find treatment and fight stigma—especially in Indigenous communities across Canada. The campaign uses both traditional Indigenous knowledge and modern health practices to create solutions that fit the culture and are led by the community. During the week, there are events for women, youth, Two-Spirit people and other groups who may be more at risk. It also works to correct misinformation and address unfair systems. In Canada, HIV rates are rising and Indigenous people make up almost 20% of new cases even though they are only 5% of the population. This reminds us why it’s so important to have health approaches that respect Indigenous traditions and leadership.
The fight is not over. HIV diagnosis in Canada rose by 35% in 2023; in Ontario, six in 100,000 people were diagnosed with a new infection. Stigma, systemic barriers and social determinants continue to make it harder for many—especially women, girls and 2SLGBTQ+ people—to access care. Join us and wear a red ribbon and together we can support all those impacted by HIV/AIDS.
Getting tested is key to prevention and early treatment. York Region Public Health offers HIV and other sexually transmitted infection (STI) testing at all five sexual health clinics. Prefer testing at home? HIV self-test kits are available through GetaKit!
For more information and resources visit york.ca/SexualHealth
