On the 27 November Alliance for AIDS Action (AAA) organized an MSM convention, melu kolupu-the awakening, along with Andhra Pradesh AIDS Control Society (APSACS) and its partners. The convention started with a rally of 1500 men at risk. Over 500 community members from various projects of AAA in Rayalseema and Telangana participated in the event. The participants wore mask to symbolize the need for stemming out stigma and discrimination which is fueling the epidemic. |
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The convention was marked by a gala cultural programme by the communities from all across the Andhra Pradesh. There was keen competition among participants in the fashion show as they walked on the stage in their radiant and flamboyant costumes, expressing their sexuality.
Amidst all the celebration, a panel discussion and a media interaction was organized simultaneously to bring forth the need of meaningful involvement of MSMs in countering HIV/AIDS. The convention was a lead up to a Worlds AIDS Day.
The convention was attended by Director General of National AIDS Control Society (NACO), Ms Sujatha Rao, and Project Director, APSACS, Mr Chandra Vadan along with gay activist from all over India. |
