Detroit-area teens and young people are being urged to take advantage of free HIV testing combined with special programs and events through the end of June.
City Council member Alberta Tinsley-Talabi is working with the National Mayors' Campaign Against HIV, Renee McCoy of the Detroit Department of Health & Wellness Promotion, WJLB-FM announcer "Dr. Darrius" and others on the effort, which targets Detroiters ages 13-35. Teens and young adults are two of the fastest-growing demographics becoming infected with the disease, said Tinsley-Talabi.
No one is immune to HIV/AIDS, stressed Tinsley-Talabi. "The 'I' in HIV could be me and the 'I' in AIDS could be you. We must take charge of our lives, particularly as it relates to health, and become more proactive in educating ourselves, as well as friends and loved ones about AIDS," she said.
People who participate in the free testing, conducted through Friday at health centers across the city, will be given a pass to a celebrity basketball game and concert on Saturday featuring the R&B artist Sammie at Martin Luther King Jr. High School. The singer, who will perform at halftime, is a spokesperson for BET cable network's "Wrap It Up" HIV/AIDS awareness campaign.
On Friday, youths ages 13-18 are invited to attend a lock-in and summit at Detroit's Northwest Activities Center. Food, games, and entertainment will be provided; the event begins at 8 p.m.
06/24/08
MICHIGAN: Get Tested for HIV/AIDS and Catch a Free Sammie Concert
Source: Detroit News:: Lisa East; Courtesy of the CDC National Center for HIV, STD, and TB Prevention