HomeMy WebLinkAboutItem 02 2021 NationalHIVTestingDayProclamationSpringfieldNATIONAL HIV TESTING DAY
PROCLAMATION
WHEREAS: The medical condition known as HIV and AIDS is still a prominent and national
concern, with 38,000 new infections each year. In the United States in 2018 alone, 1,739 youth under
the age of 19 were diagnosed with HIV. Over 11,000 Oregonians were diagnosed with HIV in the
last 39 years, with approximately 230 new cases of HIV occurring each year in the state; and
WHEREAS: One in seven individuals are unaware that they are HIV positive and only four in 10
Oregonians having ever been tested for HIV; and
WHEREAS: Testing is critical to HIV prevention. Getting tested and actively managing HIV through
treatment can not only reduce mortality and improve quality of life, but also reduces the risk of the
spread of HIV from a person living with HIV to their partner by 96%; and
WHEREAS: Each year, on June 27, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC),
AIDS.gov and other national and local entities across the United States, organize National HIV
Testing Day. This initiative is a national challenge for “Knowing” one’s HIV status. It encourages
individuals to obtain their HIV status, either through in-person or self-testing; and
WHEREAS: City officials are exceptionally situated to increase awa reness and understanding among
their constituents that all Americans need to be tested for HIV infections, to not only protect their
own health, but to also work towards eradicating HIV and AIDS,
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Sean VanGordon, Mayor of the City of Springfield, Oregon, do hereby
Proclaim June 27, 2021, as
"National HIV Testing Day"
As a day to build awareness that "Knowing” is power and to encourage all residents to obtain their
HIV status.
____________________________________
Sean VanGordon
Mayor