“Glow Red” Campaign to Combat HIV Stigma launched for World AIDS Day
HIV Ireland proudly announces the return of its annual Glow Red campaign for World AIDS Day (1st December). This year’s campaign highlights the ongoing impact of stigma on women living with HIV and reinforces the urgent need for awareness and understanding in combating discrimination.
The campaign, which will feature on digital signage and social media, is led by TV presenter and activist Rebecca Tallon de Havilland whose work amplifies the voices of women and marginalised communities impacted by HIV.
“I am so proud of the women who have joined me for what is ordinarily a rare moment – women talking openly about their HIV status”, said Ms Tallon de Havilland. “Each of us has a unique but familiar story to tell about our HIV journey and the judgement society so often places at the feet of women in particular,” she added.
Also featured is noted Manchester based campaigner Victoria Roscow, who was diagnosed with HIV while 9 weeks pregnant. Thanks to advances in antiretroviral medication, Victoria’s son was born HIV negative, and she is unable to pass on the virus to her husband.
The campaign also features HIV and STI Community Outreach Worker Mary Davies [name changed], who has lived and worked in Ireland since 2006. Mary wished to participate in the campaign but remain anonymous to shine a light on the difficulties faced by many migrant women in publicising their HIV status.
The campaign encourages landmark buildings across Ireland to light up in red, with over 60 iconic sites including Kilkenny Castle, the Rock of Cashel, and Dublin’s iconic Convention Centre participating.
Speaking ahead of the launch, Chair of HIV Ireland, Steve Lynam stated:
“Stigma remains one of the most significant barriers to ending the HIV epidemic. Through Glow Red, we aim to send a powerful message of inclusion, empathy, and progress for everyone affected by HIV.”.
HIV Ireland Annual Report 2023
The launch of the Glow Red campaign coincides with the publication of HIV Ireland’s Annual Report for 2023 which highlights the organisation’s ongoing work to prevent HIV transmission, support people living with HIV, and combat HIV-related stigma in the provision of care.
The report details key findings from research conducted last year by Elena Vaughan at the University of Galway in which:
- 40% of healthcare workers expressed concerns about interacting with PLWHIV, such as taking blood.
- 54% of PLWHIV surveyed reported avoiding healthcare out of fear of discrimination.
- One in five healthcare professionals admitted to using unwarranted “special measures” with PLWHIV.
These figures demonstrate that while Ireland has made significant strides in HIV prevention, stigma continues to erode the quality of life and care for many.
Expanded Efforts and Innovations in 2023
HIV Ireland also celebrated several milestones in 2023, underscoring its commitment to prevention, education, and community support:
- The unveiling of the National HIV and AIDS Monument in the Phoenix Park by then Taoiseach Leo Varadkar TD, and shortly to feature in the RTE1 Documentary Memorial: The Story of HIV/ADS in Ireland [Thursday 28 Nov, 10.15pm RTE1, produced by Jonathan deBurca Butler].
- The launch of the flagship Equal Check & Chat mobile screening service, providing free HIV testing and resources to underserved communities across Leinster.
- Collaboration with dating app Grindr, allowing Irish users to access free HIV self-testing kits directly via the app, a first outside the U.S.
The organisation’s dedication to inclusivity is reflected in the development of tailored services for trans communities, spearheaded by de Havilland, and outreach to migrants, including over 90 Ukrainians newly linked to care.
Reflecting on the past success of the Glow Red campaign, HIV Ireland Executive Director Mr Stephen O’Hare said:
“As Ireland strives to meet its 2030 goal of ending new HIV transmissions, campaigns like Glow Red remind us that stigma eradication is crucial to achieving that vision. HIV Ireland calls on healthcare providers, policymakers, and communities to join forces in building a stigma-free future.”
Ends
Notes for Editors
For Interview, please contact Stephen O’Hare, Executive Director, Tel: 0857112635, email: stephen.ohare@hivireland.ie
About the Glow Red Campaign
The Glow Red Campaign features Rebecca Tallon de Havilland, Victoria Roscow and Mary Davies [name changed for privacy] as women proudly calling for an end to HIV-related stigma. The outputs will feature on electronic billboards, print and social media.
Photos Outputs available for use at this link https://we.tl/t-WW21XIFklf
More information on Glow Red campaign at www.hivireland.ie/glowred
About Memorial: The Story of HIV/AIDS in Ireland documentary
The documentary film Memorial: The story of HIV/AIDS in Ireland – Thursday 28 Nov, 10.15pm, RTE1 and is produced by journalist Jonathan deBurca Butler.
The documentary will feature stories of survival and resilience from people living with HIV including Rebecca Tallon de Havilland, Liz Nugent and Tonie Walsh.
About HIV Ireland
HIV Ireland is a national organisation committed to ending new HIV transmissions, combating stigma, and supporting those impacted by HIV. With innovative programs like the MPOWER initiative for gbMSM and a national peer-led support network for people living with HIV, HIV Ireland serves as a trusted partner in prevention and advocacy.
Comments on Key Findings in the Annual Report (2023)
The 2023 Annual Report highlights both progress and persistent challenges in HIV advocacy and care. Significant accomplishments include:
- Stigma Research: Findings reveal enduring biases in healthcare, emphasizing the need for systemic education on modern HIV treatment and transmission prevention.
- Community Impact: Over 3,200 interventions supported nearly 1,000 PLWHIV, addressing issues from housing insecurity to mental health.
- Innovative Testing: The Equal Check + Chat mobile testing unit and expanded self-testing initiatives represent strides in accessibility, particularly for marginalised communities.
- Policy Advocacy: The unveiling of the National HIV and AIDS Monument serves as a poignant reminder of the historical and ongoing fight against HIV-related stigma.
A copy of HIV Ireland Annual Report 2023 is available at: https://www.hivireland.ie/wp-content/uploads/HIV-Ireland-AR-2023-v2-DIGITAL-final.pdf