Resolution 37 of 2019

SALT LAKE CITY CORPORATION

RESOLUTION 37 OF 2019

RESOLUTION DECLARING
WORLD AIDS DAY IN SALT LAKE CITY

Whereas, according to estimates from the Joint United Nations Program on HIV/AIDS, there are now more than 36.9 million people throughout the world living with HIV; of these, 1.8 million are children; 1.8 million new infections occurred among adults and children in 2017 alone; and

Whereas, in Utah, adolescents and young adults, ages 13 to 24, had the second largest rate of new HIV diagnoses for the last two years; and

WHEREAS, in Utah, persons who are non-Hispanic Asian and Hispanic are more likely than other racial/ethnic groups to have a stage 3 infection at time of diagnosis; and

WHEREAS, up to 80 percent of people living with HIV in Utah reside along the Wasatch Front; and

Whereas, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has found that HIV-related stigma has a significant negative impact on people living with HIV, increases new infections, and delays people seeking testing for HIV; and

whereas, stigma, shame and fear make people less likely to discuss their sexual health with doctors and often leads to delays in seeking testing or treatment for sexually transmitted infections and HIV, which can have serious long-term health consequences; and

WHEREAS, the elimination of stigma in Utah will lead to better physical and mental health outcomes for people living with HIV, increased HIV disclosure, increased HIV testing and decreased HIV infections; and

Whereas, World AIDS Day was established in 1988 and is observed each year on December 1 to provide an opportunity for individuals and communities to take action and help educate for HIV/AIDS prevention, treatment and care; and

WHEREAS, Salt Lake City has joined other cities around the world in an effort to increase awareness, reduce stigma, provide education about HIV/AIDS and demonstrate compassion for those affected by HIV.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED

The Salt Lake City Council hereby recognizes December 1, 2019 as World AIDS Day in Salt Lake City and encourages all residents to unite together in the fight against HIV/AIDS, reduce the stigma of HIV/AIDS, and support those who are living with or have been affected by HIV/AIDS.

Adopted this 19^thday of November, 2019