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Summary: Some 400 people, mostly children and youth, participated in a march to protest against the scourge of HIV/AIDS in their communities.
The march took place on World AIDS Day, December 1, following year-long awareness activities that were part of the global Lessons for Life campaign, organised by Camotecas Area Development Program (ADP), in Camotan, Chiquimula, north-east Guatemala.Lessons for Life encourages children to participate and change the vulnerability of those affected by AIDS,” said World Vision Advocacy Coordinator Maria.
During the year, children and youth participated in workshops and learned about children’s rights, values, solidarity, and HIV/AIDS.
“We have learned about methods to prevent AIDS but I think the best one is the abstinence,” said a 14-year-old boy, who attended the march.
The commemoration march was held in the main street of Camotan and Jocotan municipalities, Chiquimula. During the march, children distributed Lessons for Life information and posters.
A fifteen year old girl, in the ninth grade, observed, “We are well informed about how people get HIV and how to prevent it.
“I share with my friends how to support infected people and treat them with love,” she said. “It is important to know that infected or not, we all have the same rights.”
Camotecas ADP is also coordinating with the Ministry of Health, the church, and other non-governmental organisations to take action against HIV/AIDS. The ADP intends to continue its awareness campaign for the following year.
Owner: Cecilio Martinez