TO: Opinion Page Editor

FROM: Amy Figard, House Democratic Communications Office

SUBJECT: Op-ed from state Rep. Ronald Waters, D-Phila./Delaware

DATE: Feb. 8, 2007

Please publish this piece from state Rep. Ronald Waters, D-Phila./Delaware, as an op-ed. If you need to confirm it, you may contact Amy Figard at (717) 787-7895 or afigard@pahouse.net.

African Americans have the power to prevent HIV/AIDS

by state Rep. Ronald G. Waters

Following up on the recent observance of National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day on Feb. 7, I must express how deeply troubled I am at how the disease is destroying our communities. A 2005 study reported the extremely frightening news that, of all ethnicities, African Americans make up more than 50 percent of the people in the United States infected with AIDS or HIV, the virus that causes AIDS.

I find it appalling that we are so disproportionately affected. African Americans must learn more about the threat posed by the disease, get tested, and make a commitment to fight HIV/AIDS.

Yes, there are medications that can indefinitely prolong the lives of many people with HIV and AIDS. But the sad fact is that in recent years our society has managed to rest on the laurels of these improved drugs, even though the drugs are expensive, and for many, unaffordable. Taking a proactive approach to preventing the spread of HIV and AIDS has somehow managed to land on the back burner of our daily lives. We cannot relax, because until a cure is found, AIDS will continue to threaten millions of lives around the world and right here at home.

Knowledge is key and steps are being made to ensure HIV-related education, awareness, prevention and treatment are available to all Pennsylvanians. Additionally, I and many other state legislators are prepared to work towards funding prevention and education/awareness programs even more.

But the most important steps are the ones each of us can take to protect and inform ourselves. I implore you to undertake four essential goals: Get educated, get tested, get involved and get treated.

Step back, take a hard look at your life, and ask the question, “Am I putting myself and others at risk?” And there is an easy way to take getting tested to the next step: Make the HIV test a part of your routine medical checkups. With new tests that are available, you no longer have to wait a week for the result.

Be aware of the dangers threatening your children, your families, your friends and your future. Remember: Complacency has been the enemy in our battle against AIDS, but awareness of the problem is our number-one ally.

            There are two easy ways to access the resources you need – visit www.blackaidsday.org or call Pennsylvania’s toll-free AIDS Fact Line at 1-800-662-6080. You have the power to stop the further spread of this disease.

State Rep. Ronald G. Waters represents the 191st Legislative District, which includes portions of Philadelphia and Delaware County.