Leicester students raise awareness for AIDS

Wear your red ribbon with pride


In recognition of World AIDS day, students at Leicester uni have been actively raising awareness for the condition. People often do not know the facts about how to protect themselves and stigma and discrimination remain a reality for many people living with it.

On Tuesday, Sexpression set up a stall in the SU to educate students on HIV and AIDS. Students were offered packs which included condoms, lube and information which demonstrated how to properly put a condom on. Raffle tickets were also sold to raise money for LASS – a local Leicester based charity which provides support to those who are diagnosed with HIV.

On Worlds AIDS Day itself, LASS were offering free HIV tests to students to show just how quick and easy it is to get tested. Every year, thousands do not know that they are infected and so the ‘Know Your Status’ initiative has become a huge priority to put a stop to the spread of HIV.

Sexpression also pinned red ribbons to tress around Victoria Park – the ribbon acts a powerful symbol to represent passion, love and visibility for those affected by the condition.

Amy Zala, who is branch co-ordinatoor of Sexpression Leicester, said: “Sexpression Leicester believes that it is important to support World AIDS Day and LASS through our sex education lesson plans, and in all the fundraising events we are running this week. With an early diagnosis and the available medication, a HIV positive result is now considered a manageable life condition.

“However the stigma that is attached to this diagnosis remains high and can greatly affect people’s lives. Help, information and support for living with HIV is available from many amazing charities, such as LASS and the Terrance Higgins trust. It’s really important that people understand the realities of HIV and get tested regularly. Wear your red ribbon with pride this World AIDS day!”

On Thursday they hosted a well-attended karaoke night at Dover Castle and the week concluded with a charity bake sale to raise more money for LASS in the SU. All in all it has been a very successful week as Sexpression and Leicester students have been actively involved in raising awareness for this great cause.