AIDS Watch Ohio
Modeled after the AIDS Watch program produced by the National Association of People With AIDS, AIDS Watch Ohio, is a statewide advocacy effort sponsored by the Ohio AIDS Coalition. AIDS Watch Ohio is a unique opportunity for people to visit with elected officials to advocate for a solid commitment to HIV/AIDS programs. OAC believes that Ohio’s elected officials must hear from people living with HIV/AIDS and their allies about the importance of local, state and federal support for HIV/AIDS services.
NAPWA AIDS Watch program held in DC, April 27-29
NAPWA AIDS Watch Policy Platform
AIDS Watch Ohio 2009:
March 30-31
AIDS Watch Ohio 2009, held on March 30 and 31, brought together 47 case managers, healthcare professionals, community activists and people living with HIV/AIDS for 2-days of training and visits to state Representatives and Senators.
Prior to the legislative visits, participants were trained in legislative advocacy and budget issues. This year’s AIDS Watch Ohio participants asked the legislators to support policies to expand syringe exchange program models, to positively influence prevention through support for comprehensive sexuality education, and to maintain current state funding for HIV/AIDS care and prevention.
The training sessions were held o March 30 at the Holiday Inn City Center in downtown Columbus. Staff from the Center for Community Solutions and the AIDS Taskforce of Greater Cleveland facilitated the trainings.
The legislatives visits were held March 31. Starting the day at the downtown YWCA with breakfast and team meetings, 14 teams set out for their scheduled legislative visits. Teams made a total of 42 visits to various state legislators including Speaker of the House Armond Budish, House Minority Leader William Batchelder, and Senate Minority Leader Capri Cafaro to name a few.
Special thanks to the AIDS Foundation of Chicago for contributing to OAC’s efforts.
Given the success of AIDS Watch Ohio 2009, the Ohio AIDS Coalition is planning to continue its advocacy and empowerment program into 2010. Due to the increased need for community response to the future of the Ryan White program, OAC is planning to conduct several in-district congressional visits with key legislators. Additionally, OAC is committed to bringing the needs of consumers and community members to policymakers through community forums and other meetings. Stay tuned for more information about OAC’s advocacy and empowerment programming.
Questions regarding AIDS Watch Ohio 2009 should be directed to Kevin Sullivan at 1-800-226-5554 or Sarah Sobel at the Ohio AIDS Coalition’s Cleveland office: (216) 881-7418
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