Gilead Sciences Sponsors Event in Atlanta in Recognition of National HIV Testing Day

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In honour of National HIV Testing DayNAESM, A Vision 4 Hope, B Holding Group Foundation, the Fulton County Board of Health, Here’s to Life Inc., Sister Love, Empowerment Resource Center, Someone Cares, Project HIM, POWER ATLANTA, The SHI Foundation and Whitefoord Health Center will host a free HIV testing event in Atlanta, Georgia. Sponsored by Gilead SciencesThe event will take place on Saturday, June 29 at Best Friend’s Restaurant and Lounge (2672 Godby Road) from 3:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.

“The B Holding Group Foundation and our community partners are excited to bring everyone together again this year for Unity Fest in recognition of National HIV Testing Day,” said Jason PandaFounder and CEO of B Condoms and B Holding Group Foundation.

“Gilead Sciences is proud to sponsor this important National HIV Testing Day event with such a broad group of community organizations in Atlanta,” said Bettina BauerVice President of U.S. HIV Treatment and Prevention at Gilead Sciences.

In addition to free HIV testing, participants will receive food, entertainment and educational information on the importance of taking the first step in knowing their HIV status.

“HIV testing is the only way to know your HIV status and a critical tool to help end the HIV epidemic for everyone, everywhere, something we are constantly working on with the community. We will continue our strong support for community-based organizations serving those most affected by HIV to help improve health equity and reduce stigma. – Bettina Bauer

The black community is disproportionately impacted by HIV, with Blacks/African Americans representing a higher proportion of new cases HIV Diagnostics and people with HIV compared to other races and ethnicities, probably because of racism, poverty, stigma and other socio-economic factors. In Atlantathe rate of HIV-positive black men is more than six times higher than that of white men, and the rate of HIV-positive black women is nearly 17 times higher than that of white women.

“There can be a lot of division in the black community – straight, gay, bisexual, trans – and we wanted to foster an environment where everyone can feel comfortable learning about health and wellness and raising awareness about HIV. We encourage everyone to come out this Saturday for free testing, entertainment, food, and a good time. – Jason Panda