On Sunday, December 1st, the world will come together to honor and recognize World AIDS Day 2024, “Take the rights path: My health, my right”, a day dedicated to remembering those we’ve lost, celebrating the resilience of those living with HIV, and recommitting ourselves to the fight against this
global epidemic. This day is not just a time for reflection but a call to action—a reminder that while significant progress has been made in treatment, awareness, and prevention, the work is far from over. By recognizing this day, we not only combat the stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS but also reaffirm our collective responsibility to ensure equitable access to healthcare, education, and support for all. Together, we can continue to move closer to a future free of HIV/AIDS.
In “WE SEE YOU”, meet Dr. Maurice O’Brian Franklin, a
distinguished Public Policy and Public Administration Adjunct Professor at California State University, Northridge.
Currently, he holds pivotal positions, including membership in Manhattan’s Community Board 10, where he represents Central Harlem and provides leadership in the Landmark
and Transportation, Health and Human Service Committee. He is also the Second Vice-President of the Harlem Hospital Community Advisory Board, a Board member
of the Prince Hall Medical Foundation, and the Chair of Health and Wellness for the founding Chapter of One Hundred Black Men in Harlem. Additionally, Dr. Franklin serves as a community advisor to the City University of New York,
Graduate Center's Harlem Strong Community Mental Health Project.
Recognized for his influential public opinion columns, Dr. Franklin received accolades from the Oklahoma Press Awards in 2023 for his article critiquing the police
killing of Tyre Nichols, underscoring his commitment to social justice and advocacy. Dr. Franklin, as the second openly gay executive staffer for the SCLC, founded three nationally recognized nonprofit organizations: Los Angles,
California based, The Black AIDS Institute (BAI), the National Black Justice Coalition (NBJC), and Second Sunday.
