An open letter to CARMEN LIRA SAADE

EditoLA JORNADA

 

Madam Editor,  The Frente Común Contra el Sida, Oaxaca, A.C. is a non-governmental organization (NGO) founded in 1992.  Over the past years, we have considered that education is one of the most important factors in the prevention of HIV/AIDS in Oaxaca, and the current public debate about the discrimination of school children with AIDS is of vital importance.

 

            How is it possible that in today’s world there are cases of discrimination against these children who represent NO risk to others by attending school?

 

            We must act now!

 

            We must implement an information campaign which is correct and complete directed at teachers, parents and, with information adequate to their ages, to boys and girls in school.

 

            Our message must be clear:  there is NO risk of contagion from attending school with someone who is HIV positive, the AIDS is NOT transmitted through casual contact, there exist NO cases reported anywhere of infection among children through this manner.

 

            The authorities of the education system should assure the integrated training of their teachers in all the school in the country.

 

            The authorities of our public health system should insure that the discussion and information in the public debate about HIV/AIDS is correct and current.

 

            Parents of school children should know that the support of the community, neighbors, loved ones and family members is vital for the well-being and quality of life of these persons.

 

            Children in school should have instruction, appropriate to their ages, about human sexuality, which clearly exists in the standard school curriculum, as well as human basic hygiene, the virus which causes AIDS and how to avoid getting it into your body.

 

            Our public leaders should begin a public discussion marked by clarity and correct information, combating discrimination, intolerance and homophobia, and demonstrating courage and maturity.

 

Bill Wolf

General Coordinator

Frente Común Contra el Sida