By Angela Knudson
December 15, 2008

December 1st marked the twentieth World AIDS Day, and two decades later, the epidemic continues to grow. Nearly 33 million people are living with HIV, and everyday, 7,500 more are infected. This year's theme, "Stop AIDS. Keep the Promise – Lead –Empower – Deliver," showcased a message that political leadership is critical. With staggering high rates of HIV here in the United States, mayors across the country are taking initiatives to help curb the problem in their communities. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that 1.1 million people are living with HIV in America, and 20 percent of them do not know it.

HIV testing is an important component to prevention, and Oakland Mayor Ron Dellums has made great strides in his city to get people tested. He, along with public and private groups, created an initiative, "Get Screened Oakland," to get all Oakland residents between the ages of 13-65 tested for HIV. A little over a year into the project, Mayor Dellums celebrated their success by hosting an event on World AIDS Day. It celebrated Alameda County's record-breaking year in testing.

New York Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg recognized successes and obstacles at a commemoration on World AIDS Day, celebrating the expansion of voluntary HIV testing in the city, rapid testing, better HIV education in public schools, free care and treatment to those who need it, and expanded syringe exchange programs. The past five years have shown a decline by 1/3 in positive test results. Bloomberg also recognized community leaders helping in the fight against AIDS and the work they have done for New Yorkers.

Youth are at great risk for HIV, making up a little over 10 percent of new infections every year. Targeting youth is extremely important, and Shelby County (TN) Mayor A C Wharton thinks just that. At an assembly at Booker T. Washington High School on World AIDS Day, Wharton and fellow city leaders stressed the importance of testing and making smart decisions. Speaking to a largely African American audience, they recognized the disproportionate effect HIV has on the African American community. Making up only 13 percent of the U.S. population, they account for almost half of new infections. Wharton stressed this, encouraging students to make responsible choices.

World AIDS Day continues to be a time to educate, honor, remember, and to inspire people. The mayors' activities across the country did just that and their hard work and leadership are admirable.