Texas: A New Tune in HIV Battle

State Rep. Borris Miles says his district, which includes Houston's Sunnyside neighborhood, has the highest HIV infection rate in Texas. Now, in a bid to raise AIDS awareness among young people in the predominantly African-American area, Miles is organizing a free hip-hop concert featuring national acts. Tickets and transportation are free to anyone ages 15-30 -- anyone, that is, who takes an HIV test.

As part of the effort, clinics across the city are offering free, rapid-result HIV tests using either an oral swab or a finger stick. During the short wait for results, youths will watch HIV awareness videos. All who test get tickets; those whose results are positive will also get counseling a referrals to care.

The concert, to be held at Reliant Arena on June 30, will feature live and pre-recorded messages about HIV awareness. Artists scheduled to appear include Lil Wayne, Baby, and Shei Atkins.

"This is the first time that anything of this scope, this size, has been attempted that I'm aware of," said Kelly McCann, CEO of AIDS Foundation Houston. Billboards, street fliers, TV spots, and announcements on radio partner KBXX-FM (97.7 The Box) will promote the testing outreach and the concert. If the event is a success, Miles is hopeful it can be replicated in other cities.

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