May 15, 2006

Vice Admiral Richard Carmona, U.S. Surgeon General, joins Asian & Pacific Islander Wellness Center in commemorating National A&PI HIV/AIDS Awareness Day,
 
WHO:            
Vice Admiral Richard Carmona, U.S. Surgeon General Asian & Pacific Islander Wellness Center, San Francisco, CA Miss San Francisco, Carol Chen
 
WHAT:          
As part of the Asian & Pacific Islander Heritage Month, US Surgeon General, Richard Carmona and Miss San Francisco Carol Chen, will be joining John Manzon-Santos, Executive Director of the Asian & Pacific Islander Wellness Center, to address the Asian & Pacific Islander (A&PI) community to raise awareness of the need to fight stigma and discrimination against those at risk for, or those living with, HIV/AIDS.  The press conference is intended to coincide with the commemoration of the National A&PI HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, on Friday May 19.
 
WHEN:          
Thursday May 18, 2006 at 2:00 pm
 
WHERE:       
Asian & Pacific Islander Wellness Center-730 Polk Street, 4th Floor, San Francisco, CA
 
WHY:             
The National A&PI HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, on May 19 is part of the Banyan Tree Project, a campaign to stop HIV/AIDS-related stigma in A&PI communities.  The Banyan Tree Project is rooted in Acceptance, Education and Access to Services.  Unfortunately, families loved ones and communities have rejected many A&PIS affected by HIV/AIDS. Through education, the Banyan Tree Project helps people accept A&PIs living with, and at risk for, HIV/AIDS.  On an annual basis individuals and organizations nationwide educate the public on how HIV/AIDS & HIV/AIDS-related stigma affect A&PIs.  On May 19, simultaneous events, intended to educate the public, are held nationwide commemorating the National Asian & Pacific Islander HIV/AIDS Awareness Day.  By promoting acceptance, A&PIs can access the services they need to stay healthy without fear or shame.  When we have knowledge, fear is transformed into understanding and compassion.  A&PIs living with, and at risk for, HIV/AIDS deserve to be treated just like everyone else – with respect and dignity.  The ultimate goal of the Banyan Tree Project – is to improve the health of A&PIs by increasing their use of HIV prevention and treatment services.
 
For more information about the 2nd annual National Asian & Pacific Islander HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, go to www.apiwellness.org. Press materials are available on the website or contact Juan Acosta at (415) 292-3420 ext 327.

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