Indianapolis, November 27, 2025
The Damien Center commemorates World AIDS Day with impactful events in Indianapolis, honoring lives lost to AIDS while promoting awareness and community engagement. Activities include a Candlelight Remembrance Ceremony, an online discussion on HIV criminalization, and a State of HIV Event featuring discussions and networking opportunities, showcasing the resilience of the community in the fight against HIV.
Damien Center Commemorates World AIDS Day in Indianapolis
Events Honor Lives Lost and Promote Awareness on December 1, 2025
Indianapolis, Indiana – The Damien Center is preparing to honor World AIDS Day on December 1, 2025, with a series of impactful events that pay tribute to those lost to AIDS while celebrating the resilience of survivors. This year’s observance, which occurs at the center’s new Mosaic campus located on the east side of Indianapolis, serves as a significant milestone as it marks the first time the event has been held at this new venue, highlighting the community’s ongoing commitment to fight against the HIV epidemic.
Such local initiatives illustrate the power of grassroots movements and personal initiatives to effect positive change in our communities. The Damien Center’s dedication to raising awareness and providing support is a testament to the potential for civic innovation to flourish in environments with fewer bureaucratic constraints. By engaging volunteers, residents, and local leaders, the organization showcases the strength of community involvement in tackling public health challenges.
World AIDS Day Events
This year’s World AIDS Day will feature several noteworthy activities designed to engage the community and foster understanding and support:
- Candlelight Remembrance Ceremony: Beginning at 10:30 a.m., this ceremony will include staff and HIV survivors recounting personal stories of the epidemic’s early days, highlighting progress made, and sharing ways to honor those who have lost their lives to AIDS. The ceremony will also showcase sections of the AIDS Memorial Quilt.
- Online Discussion on HIV Criminalization: Scheduled for noon, the Williams Institute at the UCLA School of Law will facilitate an online discussion focusing on outdated HIV criminalization laws, particularly in Indiana.
- State of HIV Event: On December 5, starting at 5:30 p.m. at Cafe Oztara, the Damien Center will host a fireside chat, an awards ceremony recognizing outstanding service, and a reception featuring food, art therapy activities, and networking opportunities. The HIV Modernization Project will also participate in this event.
Current State of HIV in Indiana
As of 2022, approximately 15,100 individuals in Indiana were living with HIV, with 83.6% being aware of their status. In that year, Indiana reported 612 new HIV diagnoses. A significant 77.1% of those diagnosed accessed medical care within the first month following diagnosis, and 69.7% of individuals with HIV achieved viral suppression, illustrating the state’s efforts towards better management of the disease.
Challenges in HIV Prevention Funding
Recent federal budget proposals have introduced significant cuts, jeopardizing the funding for HIV prevention and care programs. The CDC fuels 91% of domestic HIV prevention initiatives, but proposed funding reductions totaling approximately $794 million could severely hinder these vital services. Organizations like the Damien Center, which offers free HIV testing, affordable preventive medications, and housing solutions, now face critical financial hardships as a result of these funding cuts.
Importance of HIV Testing and Prevention
Early diagnosis and treatment remain crucial for effective HIV management. In Indiana, despite the 69.7% rate of viral suppression among those diagnosed, the uptake rate for Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) stands at only 24.6% among individuals aged 16 and older, indicating a continued need for improved awareness and accessibility in HIV prevention practices.
About the Damien Center
The Damien Center is the largest HIV/AIDS service organization in Indiana, dedicated to providing comprehensive support services that include healthcare, housing, and prevention programs. The organization’s mission is to eliminate the HIV epidemic in Central Indiana through the avenues of education, advocacy, and direct service delivery, showcasing how effective community initiatives can drive significant change.
Conclusion
In summary, the Damien Center’s observance of World AIDS Day presents an opportunity for Indianapolis residents to engage with critical issues surrounding HIV/AIDS while honoring those affected. This occasion prompts reflection on past challenges and opportunities for future progress, and it serves as a reminder of the importance of local involvement and advocacy. Residents are encouraged to support local events, engage in discussions about HIV awareness, and remain active participants in their communities to help foster a more informed and inclusive Indianapolis.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What events are planned for World AIDS Day at the Damien Center?
The Damien Center has organized several activities to mark World AIDS Day:
- Candlelight Remembrance Ceremony: Scheduled for 10:30 a.m., this ceremony will feature staff and HIV survivors sharing personal stories about the early days of the epidemic, the progress made, and ways to honor those who have passed away from AIDS. Sections of the AIDS Memorial Quilt will also be displayed.
- Online Discussion on HIV Criminalization: At noon, the Williams Institute at the UCLA School of Law will host an online discussion about HIV criminalization in the U.S., focusing on outdated laws in Indiana.
- State of HIV Event: On December 5, starting at 5:30 p.m. at Cafe Oztara, the Damien Center will host a fireside chat, an awards ceremony for service, and conclude with a reception featuring art therapy activities, food, and networking opportunities. The HIV Modernization Project will also be present.
What is the current state of HIV in Indiana?
As of 2022, approximately 15,100 individuals in Indiana were living with HIV, with 83.6% aware of their status. In 2022, 612 new HIV diagnoses were reported in the state, with 77.1% of those diagnosed receiving medical care within one month. Additionally, 69.7% of individuals with HIV achieved viral suppression.
What challenges are being faced in HIV prevention funding?
Recent federal budget proposals have led to significant cuts in funding for HIV prevention and care programs. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) funds 91% of domestic HIV prevention efforts, and proposed cuts amounting to approximately $794 million could severely impact these initiatives. Local organizations like the Damien Center, which provide essential services such as free HIV testing, affordable prevention medications, and housing, are facing financial challenges due to these reductions.
Why is HIV testing important?
Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial in managing HIV. In Indiana, 69.7% of individuals with HIV achieved viral suppression in 2022. However, the state faces challenges in HIV prevention, with a PrEP uptake rate of 24.6% among individuals aged 16 and older.
What is the Damien Center?
The Damien Center is Indiana’s largest HIV/AIDS service organization, providing comprehensive support services, including healthcare, housing, and prevention programs. Its mission is to end the HIV epidemic in Central Indiana through education, advocacy, and direct services.
| Event | Date & Time | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Candlelight Remembrance Ceremony | December 1, 2025, at 10:30 a.m. | Personal stories shared by staff and HIV survivors, with sections of the AIDS Memorial Quilt displayed. |
| Online Discussion on HIV Criminalization | December 1, 2025, at 12:00 p.m. | Discussion focusing on outdated HIV criminalization laws in Indiana. |
| State of HIV Event | December 5, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. | A fireside chat, awards ceremony, and reception featuring food and art therapy activities. |
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