TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) - Thursday is National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, and the Leon County Health Department is working to make sure everyone in the community goes out to get tested.
WTXL ABC 27's Jada Williams was live Thursday morning to tell how the health department getting the word out.
The health department is hosting a couple of events to inspire people to get tested.
In fact, despite the fact that Thursday is the day for awareness, the health department is spending a couple of days getting the word out.
The whole idea is to increase HIV and AIDS awareness, promote testing, and get rid of the negative stigmas and ideas that people have about getting tested and the disease itself.
Of the 1400 HIV cases in Leon County, 76 percent of those affected identify as black or African American.
Now the health department is partnering with the Tallahassee Links to invite people to come out and learn more while also being in a fun and educational environment.
Kiara Dale is the minority AIDS coordinator for the Leon County Department of Health.
"I think it's very important that we bring this message, but do it in a creative way that breaks down those barriers," Dale said. "It's already scary, going in for an HIV test, but bringing it to the commjunity and saying hey, listen, we're going to bring this to you in a fun and entertaining way. We want you to know the seriousness of it. We also want you to get tested and know your status."
The Health Department is hosting a couple of events this weekend.
Hands Up Dance Showcase is Friday at 6:30 at Lee Hall on FAMU's campus.
It's free to attend.
On Saturday, there will be Lunch and Learn with an HIV-positive advocate.
The free event begins at 10 a.m. at the Delta Kappa Omega Providence Community Center.
