01/12/2025
World AIDS Day 2025: Standing Together in Compassion and Strength
Today is December 1st—World AIDS Day.
We had planned to gather with our community across Hong Kong to honor those we've lost to AIDS, celebrate the resilience of people living with HIV, and share important information about prevention and health. But in light of the heartbreaking fire that took the precious lives of *Indonesian and Filipino domestic helpers* and brought devastating loss to so many families, we've decided to pause our public events. Today, we stand alongside all Hong Kong communities in grief and send our deepest sympathies to everyone affected by this tragedy.
This terrible fire reminds us of two powerful truths:
- *Life is fragile, and our health is a gift we must treasure.* In a single moment, tragedy can strike. Those who survived and are healing show us how important it is to care for ourselves and each other.
- *In our hardest times, humanity shines brightest.* We've seen firefighters risk everything to save lives, healthcare workers work without rest to help the injured, neighbors support each other, and volunteers come from across the city to offer help. This spirit of selfless love, genuine care, and reaching out to help—this is what makes Hong Kong strong, and it's what makes our diverse community beautiful.
*We are deeply grateful to the Hong Kong community for the outpouring of support, compassion, and solidarity shown to our Indonesian and Filipino sisters and brothers during this devastating time.*
On this World AIDS Day, what the red ribbon represents—compassion, understanding, and unity—matters more than ever. While we can't be together in person today, and while our hearts are heavy with loss, we invite each of you to remember this day in your own meaningful way.
*The Meaning of the Red Ribbon*
- *Every person deserves dignity.* People living with HIV have the same right to respect, care, and a good life as everyone else—no matter where they come from or what language they speak.
- *Their experiences teach us all.* They show us why prevention is so important, why getting tested early can save lives, and why staying on treatment matters. They remind us to choose understanding over fear, and knowledge over stigma.
- *HIV is a health issue, not a judgment.* The virus doesn't care about your background, your beliefs, or where you're from—anyone can be affected. We must never let discrimination or prejudice harm our brothers and sisters living with HIV.
- *How we treat each other is what counts most.* A friendly greeting, a genuine smile, acceptance without questions—these simple acts can light up someone's world and give them hope. When we offer understanding instead of judgment, we give people living with HIV the courage and dignity to live fully.
*Remembering, Honoring, Moving Forward*
Today, as we mourn those lost in the fire, we also remember all who have died from AIDS. We honor every person living with HIV who faces each day with incredible courage and strength. Thank you for your bravery and resilience.
Let the spirit of the red ribbon—compassion, understanding, and solidarity—be the strength that lifts us through this sorrowful time and carries us forward together.
*Peer Power*
December 1, 2025 – World AIDS Day
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