Media Advisory: Annual AIDS Candlelight Vigil in Toronto

TORONTO, June 23 /CNW/ - On the eve of the G20 Summit, thousands will gather to call for action on HIV/AIDS. The annual AIDS Candlelight Vigil will be held on Thursday, June 24, 2010 at the AIDS Memorial in Cawthra Square Park, in downtown Toronto. This year, as the world's most powerful political leaders gather in Toronto, we will use this opportunity to highlight the failure of the world's political leaders to provide a response to the 12 million people living with HIV/AIDS around the globe who need access to medication and care.

    
    What:   People living with HIV/AIDS, friends, family and various
            community leaders join together to remember those who have died
            and to demand action for the millions around the world living
            with HIV/AIDS.

    Where:  Cawthra Square Park, 519 Church Street, Toronto, Ontario

    When:   Thursday, June 24, 2010, 8:45 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.

    Who:    Co-hosts Maureen Owino, mother and community activist; Omar
            Torres, community activist; performers include GLAD Voices, Peter
            Stuckless, Kevin Nelson, Gary Logie, Deidrey Francois
            and Singing Out.
    

Please note that advance media registration is suggested and media are requested to sign in prior to 9:00 pm to avoid disruption of the Vigil. Advance and post event interviews can be arranged.

ABOUT THE AIDS VIGIL:

The AIDS Candlelight Vigil is an open community event held annually at the AIDS Memorial to remember, honour and celebrate the people who have died of AIDS or AIDS related illnesses, or who have given their lives in the fight against HIV/AIDS. Every year, thousands of candles are lit to honour and remember those who have died, and to encourage and support others who live with this disease every day.

For further information: www.the519.org/events/aidsvigil, Matthew Cutler, The 519: [email protected], 647.248.2199; Todd Ross, Organizing Committee: [email protected], 416.505.4740