Washington, DC – (Tuesday, February 7, 2012) –Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson released the following statement in recognition of the 12^th Annual National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day:

“Today, February 7^th, represents an important day in our community as we have an opportunity to educate blacks on HIV/AIDS awareness, prevention, and action. HIV/AIDS is taking a devastating toll on the black community, with nearly 20,000 blacks testing positive for HIV each year in the United States. While black Americans account for nearly 14% of the U.S. population, it is disheartening that they account for 44% of new HIV infections.

As a long-time advocate for women’s health, I am most concerned by the fact that African-American women in the U.S. are 15 times more likely to be living with HIV/AIDS than their white counterparts. I cannot overemphasize the importance of getting tested and knowing your status. Getting tested is the first step towards managing this disease, because early treatment is critical to prolonging life.

Each of us has a role to play in fighting the spread of this devastating disease. In line with this year’s theme, “I am My Brother’s/Sister’s keeper: Fight HIV/AIDS,” I urge African-Americans to get educated, get tested, and, most importantly, get involved. I will continue to work with my colleagues, the Administration, and local community partners in the 30^th Congressional District of Texas to make AIDS/HIV a disease of the past.”

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U.S. Representative Eddie Bernice Johnson is the highest-ranking Texan on the House Committee on Transportation & Infrastructure and a senior member of the Science Committee. She represents the 30th Congressional District of Texas, which, includes Downtown Dallas, Fair Park, Oak Lawn, Turtle Creek,Old East Dallas, Pleasant Grove, & South Oak Cliff; all of Balch Springs, DeSoto, Hutchins, Lancaster & Wilmer and parts of Cedar Hill, Duncanville, Ferris, Glenn Heights and Ovilla.