The University’s LGBT+ Staff Network is working with the Gulbenkian to support World AIDS Day on Friday 1 December.

Two films are being screened to promote the day, which is an opportunity for people worldwide to unite in the fight against HIV, to show support for people living with HIV, and to commemorate those who have died from an AIDS-related illness. Founded in 1988, World AIDS Day was the first ever global health day.

Over 100,000 people are living with HIV in the UK. Globally, there are an estimated 36.7 million people who have the virus. Despite the virus only being identified in 1984, more than 35 million people have died of HIV or AIDS, making it one of the most destructive pandemics in history.

Today, scientific advances have been made in HIV treatment, there are laws to protect people living with HIV and we understand so much more about the condition. Despite this, each year in the UK around 6,000 people are diagnosed with HIV, people do not know the facts about how to protect themselves and others, and stigma and discrimination remain a reality for many people living with the condition.

World AIDS Day is important because it reminds the public and government that HIV has not gone away – there is still a vital need to raise money, increase awareness, fight prejudice and improve education.

Red ribbons will be available from the Gulbenkian Box Office for a donation to support the National AIDS Trust, and two LGBT+ films are being screened to commemorate this important day:

• Call me by your name
• Thelma

Find out more at www.thegulbenkian.co.uk.