Take Action Know Your Status Share Knowledge

"HIV/AIDS: Take Action. Know Your Status. Share Knowledge." was an event hosted by the National Congress of Black Women (NCBW) that attempted to do what may seem impossible: the remove the stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS. HIV/AIDS are immunodeficiency diseases that are transmitted during sexual intercourse. The stigma surrounding these serious illnesses prevent many people from getting tested and educating themselves. The NCBW held the event at the Army National Guard Reserve Center on March 1, 2014. The NCBW aims to empower all women in the community through education and understanding. Mary Long, a NCBW member, said, "What we're doing here today is important because women should know that we're here to help them. We help in communities, shelters, churches.. all over. Wherever there is a need, we will help." The NCBW used education and information on available resources to raise awareness about this issue. There were free rapid HIV tests available and guest speakers who shared the NCBW's mission of self-empowerment. There were also health courses, a mobile blood drive, vendor booths, and raffles available at this event. The necessity of events like these is expressed by NCBW's founding chair, Dr. Mary McBean, "It's about community service. It's about women of service. It's about giving back to the community."