The National AIDS Memorial has been sharing the story of the struggle against HIV/AIDS since the beginning of the pandemic. Through their programs, they remember in perpetuity the lives lost, and offer healing and hope to survivors, inspiring a new generation of activists in the fight against stigma, denial and hate for a just future.
Among these programs, the AIDS Memorial Quilt has been one of the most powerful. Originally called the NAMES Project, the Quilt’s first panel was created in June 1987. In October 1987, the Quilt was displayed for the first time on the National Mall in D.C., and its 1,920 panels covered a space larger than a football field. The Quilt is ever-growing and today has more than 55,000 panels weighing more than 54 tons.
The National AIDS Memorial Grove is another anchor program. Located in Golden Gate Park, this 10-acre living memorial honors all those who have confronted the pandemic, provides a place to heal in nature, and hosts events throughout the year, including the annual commemoration of World AIDS Day.
Our speaker, John Cunningham, joined the National AIDS Memorial as Chief Executive in 2009. John is a fifth generation Californian, having grown up in the East Bay before relocating to New England at the age of seven.
A graduate of the University of California at Berkeley, he received a degree in political science and organizational behavior. John presently resides in Oakland with his husband Joel and their two dogs.
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Podcast Producer: Elton Sherwin
Audio edited and enhanced with: Descript Studio Sound
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