This is an archive page. The links are no longer being updated.
Date: Friday, Nov. 29, 1996 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Victor Zonana (202) 690-6343
"Another 8,500 people will be infected tomorrow, and the next day, and the next day, and the next day....
"In the United States alone, at least 40,000 Americans become infected with HIV every year. Every day, over 100 Americans die of AIDS-related complications.
"These are our sons and daughters; our fathers and mothers; our friends, lovers and loved ones.
"These statistics send a sobering message: the AIDS pandemic is not over.
"While the powerful combination therapies introduced this year offer hope to those who can access them, we must refrain from premature declarations of victory. The AIDS pandemic is not over.
"I'm proud of what the Clinton Administration has accomplished in the fight against this killer. But the theme of this World AIDS Day "One World, One Hope" reminds us that we must all join hands and work toward a time when AIDS is but a distant and haunting memory.
"On this World AIDS Day, let us rededicate ourselves to finding a vaccine and a cure. Let us rededicate ourselves to caring for those who need our help. Let us rededicate ourselves to preventing the transmission of this insidious virus. And let us rededicate ourselves to fighting denial and discrimination. For AIDS is a disease, not a moral judgment, and any breach in human solidarity is a victory for the virus."