Dear AAR members,
By now you have all probably read the pope’s comments on his trip to Africa. If you haven’t you can read more in this article: http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/europe/7950671.stm
The pope is quoted as saying “[HIV/AIDS is] a tragedy that cannot be overcome by money alone, that cannot be overcome through the distribution of condoms, which can even increase the problem”
There has been a worldwide response to this. Bert Koenders the Dutch development minister has said “The Pope is making matters worse” and I agree.
The United Nations has a program devoted to fighting AIDS called The Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (http://www.unaids.org/en/default.asp).
They make their position clear (http://www.unaids.org/en/default.asp) that the male condom is “the single, most efficient, available technology to reduce the sexual transmission of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections.”
I am planning on donating 10 dollars to their program. This is because as a human being I feel responsible for my fellow people and we should as a group try to provide proper education and resources to those in need.
I also encourage any of you who feel the same to donate as well. You can find information on how to donate here: http://www.unaids.org/en/Partnerships/Donors/donate_now.asp
Please feel free to contact me if you need any more information.
Many thanks,
~Grant H.
~AAR Secretary
