Stars Against AIDS Exhibit Opens in Moscow
On December 1, 2008, the 20th anniversary of World AIDS Day, a photo exhibit of “Stars Against AIDS” opened at the Library of Foreign Literature in Moscow. In his remarks at the opening ceremony, Eric Rubin, the U.S. Embassy’s Deputy Chief of Mission, noted the political and financial commitment that Russia has demonstrated in the fight against HIV/AIDS in recent years, and celebrated those participating in the exhibit for their efforts to promote tolerance and compassion towards people affected by HIV/AIDS.
Organized by UNAIDS, the exhibit showcases 25 women—actresses, journalists, editors, singers, and athletes—from Russia and Ukraine in an effort to combat stigma against AIDS. Those who spoke at the opening, including the writer Lyudmila Ulitskaya and the singer Diana Gurtskaya, stressed that it is the duty of cultural leaders to speak openly about the danger of intolerance and the need to reduce discrimination against people living with HIV. During the event, Orel-based NGO Phoenix-Plus was presented with the UNAIDS Red Ribbon Award for its outstanding contribution to the fight against AIDS—making it the first Russian organization to receive this recognition.
 |
| U.S. Embassy Deputy Chief of Mission Eric Rubin speaking at the Stars Against AIDS event in Moscow on World AIDS Day 2008. |
Back to Top ^ |
