Twenty years ago, new terminology entered the American lexicon, and the country’s not been the same since.

Monday, October 23, 2000

Twenty years ago, new terminology entered the American lexicon, and the country’s not been the same since.

AIDS, HIV – they’re acronyms, mere letters that have the power to strike a cord of fear, outrage, indignation.

And, after 20 years, the virus continues to be largely misunderstood. Americans don’t understand how the disease is transmitted or who is at risk.

Discrimination still surrounds those affected by the disease.

"A recent poll revealed that many Americans still feel uncomfortable being around people with AIDS and still believe that AIDS can be spread by casual contact," report officials from the Minnesota AIDS Project.

An opportunity to speak frankly of the issues that surround the disease will be offered Oct. 24, when MAP hosts an AIDS town hall at Riverland Community College’s Skylight Room at the Albert Lea Campus.

In a collaborative effort with Freeborn County Public Health, Freeborn County AIDS Task Force and Planned Parenthood, MAP’s town hall, titled "HIV Stigma and Discrimination," is aimed to increase awareness, education and advocacy.

Having attended similar town hall two years ago, I can honestly say the experience was educational.

It was at that time that I learned that the incidence of HIV is growing within the population of our youth. It’s particularly dangerous because young adults are also the population with the highest increase in sexual ly transmitted diseases, and research indicates those with an STD are more likely to contract HIV.

The town hall meeting is an effective information exchange. It is an opportunity for residents of southern Minnesota to find out what is being done around the state to fight the spread of HIV and AIDS.

It’s also a chance for residents to pick up brochures and literature and ask questions.

For parents who don’t know how to talk to their children about abstinence, sex, STDs and AIDS, this is the time to get all the information they need to talk to and protect their children.

HIV and AIDS experts will be joined by elected officials and health care officials to engage in dialogue. Concerned members of the community are encouraged to attend.

Shawnda Schelinder in the Austin Daily Herald’s associate editor. She can be reached at 434-2235 or by e-mail shawnda.schelinder@austindailyherald