This resolution supports National Women and Girls HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, emphasizing the need to address the disproportionate impact of HIV/AIDS on women and girls globally through increased awareness, prevention, and access to care.
Maxine Waters
Representative
CA-43
This resolution recognizes the ongoing impact of HIV/AIDS, particularly on women and girls, and supports increased awareness, prevention, and access to care and treatment. It emphasizes the need for targeted efforts to address vulnerabilities, reduce disparities, and promote youth-friendly health services. The resolution also encourages global efforts to combat discrimination and improve access to sexual and reproductive health services.
National Women and Girls HIV/AIDS Awareness Day Resolution: What It Means for 2025
This resolution officially recognizes March 10, 2025, as National Women and Girls HIV/AIDS Awareness Day. It's all about shining a spotlight on how HIV/AIDS continues to impact women and girls, not just in the U.S., but globally. The resolution acknowledges the ongoing challenges of HIV/AIDS, citing that over 1.2 million people in the U.S. are living with the virus, and approximately 22% of them are women. It points out the stark reality of new infections and HIV-related deaths, with specific mentions of the disproportionate impact on women of color, particularly African-American women. (H Res XXX).
Facing the Facts on HIV/AIDS
The resolution lays out some sobering statistics. It reminds us that routine HIV testing is recommended for everyone aged 13 to 64, and highlights the importance of annual screening for those at higher risk. It also notes that all pregnant women should be screened. Think of it like this: getting tested is as routine as your annual check-up or, for trades workers, ensuring your equipment is up to code – essential for safety and well-being. For example, a young woman working in retail might not realize she's at risk, but this resolution encourages her to get tested, just like she would get regular health checkups.
Global View, Local Impact
The resolution doesn't just focus on the U.S.; it takes a global perspective, referencing UNAIDS data. We're talking about over 42 million AIDS-related deaths worldwide since the epidemic began, with nearly 40 million people currently living with HIV globally—53 percent of whom are women and girls. It highlights that a significant portion of new infections globally are among women and girls, emphasizing the need for targeted efforts. This means programs and initiatives specifically designed to reach and support women and girls are crucial.
Action and Advocacy
Beyond just raising awareness, the bill focuses on promoting sustained investment in prevention, care, treatment, and research. The goal is to reduce disparities and improve access to essential medications. It pushes for youth-friendly, culturally responsive, and inclusive healthcare services. This includes making sure that medications for prevention (like PrEP) and treatment are readily available. It also encourages continued investment and engagement across foreign assistance programs. The resolution calls for an end to violence against women and girls, and a stop to discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. It promotes access to current, inclusive, culturally responsive, and medically accurate HIV information. This means making sure everyone, including women and girls, has the facts about HIV, including pre- and post-exposure prophylaxis. It's about empowering everyone with the knowledge to protect themselves and others.