(January 25, 2007) Each year, February 7th is observed as National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (NBHAAD). In fact, this year marks the 7th annual observance of NBHAAD, a national mobilization effort designed to encourage African-Americans across the United States and Territorial Areas to get educated, get tested, get treated, and get involved with HIV/AIDS, as it continues to devastate Black communities.

“National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day is a remarkable effort that was founded in 2001 to increase participation and support for HIV/AIDS prevention, care and treatment among African Americans through a national community mobilization initiative,” says Steven Davis, of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and a member of the NBHAAD National Steering Committee. “We encourage everyone to get involved.”
Many celebrities and political figures are doing just that. An A-list of supporters have agreed to serve as spokespersons for National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day 2007. This includes Actress Angela Bassett; Producer Bryan Michael-Cox; U.S. Congressman Elijah E. Cummings; Sr. Pastor of World Changers Church International, Dr. Creflo A. Dollar; Indianapolis Colts Head Coach Tony Dungy; U.S. Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson; U.S. Congresswoman Stephanie Tubbs Jones; Renowned Singer Patti Labelle; U.S. Congresswoman Barbara Lee; U.S. Congresswoman Juanita Millender-McDonald; U.S. Congressman Kendrick B. Meek; U.S. Senator Barack Obama; Noah’s Arc Creator Patrik-Ian Polk; General Colin Powell; Actress Sheryl Lee Ralph; Actor Darryl Stephens from the cast of Noah’s Arc; U.S. Congresswoman Maxine Waters; and Actor Billy Dee Williams.

Radio and TV PSAs have been developed with these spokespersons, and will soon be available to the media. Media officials interested in airing the radio and TV PSAs prior to this commemorative day should contact Sonshine Communications at (305) 948-8063.

NBHAAD is directed, planned and organized by a group known as the Strategic Leadership Council who partners with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to mobilize communities and address specific issues in regards to local epidemics and best practices that are science based and will influence the course of HIV in Black communities across the country.

For more information on National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, call (888) 259-9534 or visit www.blackaidsday.org.