National Latino AIDS Awareness Day (NLAAD) is a national community mobilization and social marketing campaign aimed at increasing awareness of HIV/AIDS among the Hispanic/Latino population in the United States. It is observed annually on October 15, the last day of National Hispanic Heritage Month. The day focuses on promoting prevention, testing, and treatment, as well as reducing stigma associated with HIV/AIDS in these communities.
Quick Facts
- When is it?: October 15
- Tagged as: National Latino AIDS Awareness Day
- What’s the hashtag?: #NLAAD
- When was it founded?: 2003
- Who founded it?: The Latino Commission on AIDS and the Hispanic Federation
History of National Latino AIDS Awareness Day
National Latino AIDS Awareness Day was initiated in response to the disproportionate impact of HIV/AIDS on Hispanic/Latino communities. The first observance in 2003 highlighted the need for increased awareness and action to address the epidemic.
Timeline
- 2003: First NLAAD observed with the theme “Prevention Saves Lives.”
- 2004: Theme was “Abre Los Ojos: el VIH No Tiene Fronteras” (Open Your Eyes: HIV Has No Borders).
- 2005: Theme was “Abre los ojos: Ama Tu Vida, Protegete, Hazte La Prueba” (Open Your Eyes: Love Your Life, Protect Yourself, Get Tested).
- 2014: Theme was “To End AIDS, Commit to ACT” (Para Acabar con el SIDA, Comprometete a Actuar).
- 2024: Theme is “Start Treatment. Stick to It. Get Better.”
Date and Day for the Next Years
| Year | Month and Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | October 15 | Wednesday |
| 2026 | October 15 | Thursday |
| 2027 | October 15 | Friday |
| 2028 | October 15 | Saturday |
| 2029 | October 15 | Monday |
| 2030 | October 15 | Tuesday |
Observed
National Latino AIDS Awareness Day is observed across the United States, including Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, with local organizations organizing events tailored to their communities.
Fun Facts About National Latino AIDS Awareness Day
- NLAAD is part of a broader effort to address health disparities in Hispanic/Latino communities.
- The day includes cultural events, educational programs, and free HIV testing.
Quiz
- What is the main focus of National Latino AIDS Awareness Day?
- A) To celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month
- B) To raise awareness about HIV/AIDS in Hispanic/Latino communities
- C) To promote general health awareness
- Who founded National Latino AIDS Awareness Day?
- A) The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- B) The Latino Commission on AIDS and the Hispanic Federation
- C) The World Health Organization
FAQs
Q: Why is National Latino AIDS Awareness Day important?
A: It highlights the disproportionate impact of HIV/AIDS on Hispanic/Latino communities and promotes awareness, testing, and treatment.
Q: How can individuals participate in National Latino AIDS Awareness Day?
A: Individuals can participate by attending local events, getting tested for HIV, and spreading awareness through social media using the #NLAAD hashtag.
Importance of National Latino AIDS Awareness Day
National Latino AIDS Awareness Day is crucial for addressing the health disparities faced by Hispanic/Latino communities. It emphasizes the need for increased awareness, testing, and treatment to combat the epidemic effectively.
Related
- Hispanic Heritage Month: Celebrated from September 15 to October 15, it precedes NLAAD.
- World AIDS Day: Observed on December 1, it is a global awareness day for HIV/AIDS.
- HIV Testing and Prevention: Key components of NLAAD’s mission to reduce HIV/AIDS in Hispanic/Latino communities.