Washington, DC – (December 1, 2008)  Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson today released the following statement on World AIDS Day, which is observed each year on December 1.

“More than 40,000 Americans are infected with HIV each year, and people of color are disproportionately affected by HIV/AIDS.  AIDS is now the leading cause of death for African-American women aged 25 to 34.

“Today, on World AIDS Day, I encourage North Texans to wear a red ribbon, to remember those we have lost to AIDS, recognize those who are courageously living with the disease, and recommit to preventing and treating HIV/AIDS in every way we can. 

“I also encourage everyone to do what they can to learn about the HIV/AIDS and ensure that they are keeping themselves safe.  We must all work together to fight this epidemic.”

More information about HIV/AIDS and World AIDS Day can be found at http://www.hhs.gov/aidsawarenessdays/days/world/index.html.

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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, 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.