Pledge of Hope

Given the 1,200,000 people currently living with HIV/AIDS in the United States and that Latinos make up almost 20 percent of HIV/AIDS cases, despite comprising only 14 percent of the population, it is evident that we need an urgent call to action. HIV/AIDS has permeated and waged a debilitating war on the Hispanic community. It is a disease that knows no racial, ethnic, or religious boundary.

Twenty-five years after the first case was recorded, despite medical advancements and improvements in medications and treatments that allow people to live longer and more productive lives, there is still no cure. HIV/AIDS is a terminal disease that takes away parents, spouses, siblings, and children, stripping our community of its strong familial foundation.

We need to prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS and support the infected that are living in the shadows of our pews fearful of being judged and rejected because of stigmas and stereotypes associated with the disease. We also need to help the loved ones of those stricken with this virus who bear the arduous work of care giving. As the body of Christ, we are called to be a healing agent for our community and must respond with Christ-like compassion.

You can help wage the battle against HIV/AIDS in our community. The first and easiest step is education. Join us by signing the Pacto de Esperanza (Pledge of Hope) and by educating yourself and one other person so we can begin to heal the wounds left by HIV/AIDS and prevent it from taking another life.

Steps to take as part of this pledge:
1. Read and sign the pledge with one other person.
2. Ask one friend to also pledge with one of his or her colleagues.
3. Respond with compassion and respect to those who are affected by HIV/AIDS.
4. Proactively clarify misconceptions about HIV/AIDS.
5. Provide within your church venues, times, space, and appropriate education for effective pastoral care.
6. Create communities of support that restore the emotional and spiritual balance for those living with HIV/AIDS.

 To submit your electronic signature CLICK HERE