March 1 is observed as Zero Discrimination Day, a day the world calls for an end to laws that discriminate against those with HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) and AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome). According to the World Health Organization, “Discrimination has many forms, from racial or religious discrimination to discrimination based on gender, sexual orientation or age, and to bullying at school or at work.”

UNAIDS, a United Nations program committed to HIV/AIDS issues, leads the observance.

“In many countries, laws result in people being treated differently, excluded from essential services or being subject to undue restrictions on how they live their lives, simply because of who they are,” UNAIDS explained on their website. “Ending discrimination and changing laws is the responsibility of us all.”

UNAIDS also notes, at least 20 countries impose travel restrictions on those with HIV and, in 19 countries, there have been cases where patients have been denied medical care due to their HIV-positive status.

Last year, representatives from the Department of Health-Region VI (DOH-6) introduced the “LHIVE FREE” campaign, which intends to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS.

“There is a need to eliminate HIV-related stigma and discrimination,” said DOH-6 Sexually Transmitted Infections nurse coordinator Caroline Tumabotabo.

She said the campaign will disseminate information about HIV/AIDS, along with producing educational materials for schools and other local institutions./WDJ