AIDS Action Applauds Clinton Administration's Call for HIV Prevention Messages Appealing to America's Youth

AIDS Action applauds the White House's release today of "Youth and HIV/AIDS: An American Agenda." Considering the fact that between 27 and 54 young Americans under the age of 20 are infected by HIV disease each day, it is heartening to witness the Clinton administration's efforts to shine light on the tragic scope of the spread of HIV/AIDS among America's youth. Equally encouraging is the recognition that the federal government has a responsibility to listen to the voices of young people when crafting a national response to an epidemic that threatens America's future.

We urge the White House to continue to advocate for open and candid HIV education and prevention messages for America's youth -- messages which acknowledge the real life experiences of American youth, including gay, lesbian and bisexual adolescents. AIDS Action also strongly supports the assertions in the report that identify the special challenges faced by adolescents at risk for and living with HIV/AIDS, including gaining access to anonymous HIV counseling and testing, clinical research trials and appropriate medical care. We look forward to working with the Clinton administration to ensure that federal AIDS policies are responsive to the prevention and treatment needs of adolescents and that young Americans are directly involved in the development and implementation of policies and programs which dramatically affect their lives.

Founded in 1984, AIDS Action Council is the only national organization devoted solely to advocating on federal AIDS policy, legislation and funding. AIDS Action represents more than 1,000 community-based AIDS service organizations throughout the United States.

For more information, contact
Josi Zuniga
AIDS Action Council
1875 Connecticut Avenue NW #700
Washington DC 20009
202-986-1300, Extension 3042
202-986-1345 (fax)
202-332-9614 (tty)
E-Mail: aidsaction@aidsaction.org