The festival will be inaugurated on the eve of World AIDS Day, that is, November 30 and will continue to December 1, 2022, at Jardim Garcia de Orta, Panjim. The festival is categorised under several major themes, including improving the quality of life of those living with HIV, especially children; testing and counselling; fast-track elimination of the epidemic, stigma and discrimination; PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis), etc. The festival is structured around interactive sessions on themes, exhibits, games, film screenings, open mic, stage entertainment and mascots.
Students from across Goa have been invited to join and engage in the festival through various creative activities and competitions. These are not limited to face painting, a quiz competition, skits, T-shirt painting and a flash mob for the cause. The festival will have creatives to give messages, that is, mascots, a selfie with a red ribbon, a red ribbon tree, a human red ribbon and a candlelight memorial service.
Observed on December 1 every year, World AIDS Day (WAD) this year seeks to tackle inequalities which perpetuate the AIDS pandemic. UNAIDS is urging each of us to address the inequalities which are holding back progress in ending AIDS. The “Equalize” slogan is a call to action.
Human Touch Foundation is joining the global movement for understanding, compassion and change. The festival is supported by Youth LEAD and the Corporation of the City of Panaji.
Those wishing to participate in the festival can contact Applesta da Costa @ +91 86988 00215 | Pranab Barui @ +91 98903 60969 and Sandhya Chavan @ +91 87882 47275.