advocacy events

Media Day

Each year, AIDS Alabama hosts an annual advocacy event called "Media Day" at the state capitol in Montgomery.  This event serves as an HIV/AIDS awareness opportunity and a direct channel for HIV-positive persons to engage their elected representatives in discussion about HIV/AIDS issues that are important to them.  Media representatives are encouraged to attend, and a variety of HIV/AIDS advocates participate as keynote speakers, including Alabama legislators and the Alabama State Health Officer.  AIDS Alabama partners with each of the state's nine other AIDS service organizations to encourage and enable client participation.

Alabama HIV/AIDS Legislative Workgroup

AIDS Alabama currently serves as the lead agency for the Alabama HIV/AIDS Legislative Workgroup, a statewide HIV/AIDS advocacy coalition made up of representatives from Alabama's AIDS service organizations, health departments, HIV/AIDS medical clinics, pharmaceutical companies, as well as HIV/AIDS advocates and HIV-positive persons.  The workgroup meets throughout the year to plan and confer regarding HIV/AIDS policy issues.  Members also make visits to educate and inform elected officials on relevant topics of interest.

Governor of Alabama's HIV Commission for Children, Youth & Adults

AIDS Alabama staffs and facilitates this important commission, which is charged with "researching and developing quality options to encourage efforts to reduce cases of HIV and improve the overall health of Alabamians."

Advocacy Training

AIDS Alabama, in collaboration with the state's other AIDS service organizations, offers advocacy training to HIV-positive individuals as well as the general public.  The purpose of the training is to provide information about the legislative process and give trainees the tools to educate their elected officials on important HIV/AIDS policy issues.  SPecial emphasis is placed on the AIDS Drug Assistance Program (ADAP) and the state's budget allocation for Alabama's HIV/AIDS infrastructure and care system.  The training includes:  an overview of HIV funding; how to reach elected officials; developing an effective message; and appropriate follow up with elected officials after the meeting.  Click here for information about the next training.