National Native HIV/AIDS Awareness Day

On October 2006, the National Native CBA Network presented a resolution to the National Congress of American Indians to create the National Native HIV/AIDS awareness day, which was approved. The first National Native HIV/AIDS Awareness Day was held in 2007 to raise awareness about the presence of HIV and AIDS in our Native communities, including Native American Indians, Alaska Natives, and Native Hawaiians (collectively referred to as Native people) by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).

As cited by the CDC, Members of the Native Community chose to observe NNHAAD on the Spring Equinox because, for many, it represents a time of equality, balance, and new beginnings; a celebration of life for all people. Now in its 13th year National Native HIV/AIDS awareness day, encourages Native communities across the United States and territorial areas to get educated, get tested, and get involved in HIV prevention and treatment.

For statistics on HIV/AIDS among native populations and what you can do to get involved in the education and prevention of AIDS/HIV go to https://www.cdc.gov/features/nativehivaids/