We were there! A&PI Institute at USCA in Philadelphia

SAN FRANCISCO - October 26, 2004 — The United States Conference on HIV/AIDS held October 21-24 in Philadelphia, PA hosted Asian & Pacific Islander Institute organized by Asian & Pacific Islander Wellness Center and our national partners. This exciting day-long event brought over 50 people together to re-connect on HIV in the A&PI community across the nation and in the Pacific. Highlights of the day included honoring two leaders that fought for inclusion of A&PIs in the HIV movement from the beginning, Suki Terada Ports and Dean Gioshi. In her speech to the audience, Suki reminded us that we must never accept being included as an afterthought in any setting.

Two organizations were showcased throughout the day, Guahan Project based in Guam, discussed HIV/AIDS in Guam and the pioneering work they are doing to increase awareness of HIV in an island 20 hours flying time from Philadelphia! AIDS Services in Asian Communities also presented their work in Philadelphia highlighting their innovative prevention, care and language access programs.

This year's A&PI Institute linked the global HIV movement from Bangkok to our national HIV movement. It was energizing and inspiring to be part of a group of very dedicated and engaged collegues. And a special thanks to Karl Kimpo from Asian Health Coalition of Illinois for leading and facilitating the day!

For further information, please contact:
Lina Sheth
Director of Research & Technical Assistance
415.292.3420 x320
lina@apiwellness.org

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