Mobilization
By John Gordon
RIVERSIDE, Calif. -- Brought together in one room, in an effort to end the silence and stigma of HIV/AIDS and the ravishing affect it is having on African Americans in the community, a very qualified panel, not only voiced their opinions, but offered valid and possible solutions for change. As African Americans only make up a small percentage of the population of the county, the most recent statistics released pertaining to the rate of HIV infection are staggering. It has been reported that as many as 40 percent of newly infected individuals are of African or Latino decent. "It is for this reason we must stop the silence, speak up, be heard, and get tested", says Manasseh Nwaigwe, a communicable disease specialist and A.D.A.M. project coordinator. The panel consisted of: Dr. Wilbert Jordan of Oasis Clinic, Dr. James Kyle II, Charles Drew School of Medicine, Min., Sam Casey of C.O.P.E., and Nosente A. Uhuti, coordinator of Ontrack (I.E.). Amongst the discussions of all panelists, Uhuti pleaded to the religious community, those present and not at the meeting, to be more accepting and loving toward individuals with HIV/AIDS and not to concentrate so much on how the disease was contracted by the individual. Pastor Julio Andujo of Amos Temple CME proceeded to counter Uhuti's statement by informing the participants that his church was different and is accepting of people in the community in need. In attendance at the meeting was an array of community leaders, individuals from other AIDS and health care organizations, as well as several other pastors. Additionally, several Riverside County employees participated in the discussion and shared some of their expertise on the subject matter. Families Living with AIDS Care Center, an organization founded by Curtis and Paulette Smith, a couple living with AIDS were also present, and they freely shared their experience of life with the devastating disease. The A.D.A.M. (African Descent AIDS Mobilization) project, which is coordinated by Mwaigwe, who is assisted by Azizi Ann Brown, has planned several more events to further discuss and develop solutions to fix the current way in which African Americans deal with HIV/AIDS and welcome the participation of any and all individuals who can assist in finding solutions to the problems faced in the community. The County of Riverside has set up several testing sites for the virus and welcomes anyone who feels they may be at risk to contact A.D.A.M. project toll free at: 1-877-NO DNIAL (663-6425)