|
|
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
|
|
Lecture by Yinka Jegede-Ekpe, 2004 recipient of the Reebok Human Rights Award
March 9, 2004, Harvard School of Public Health, Boston
The AIDS Prevention Initiative in Nigeria and the Reebok Human Rights Award Program, in collaboration with HAI, the African Health Forum, and the François-Xavier Bagnoud Center for Health and Human Rights hosted a lecture by Ms. Yinka Jegede-Ekpe, 2004 recipient of the Reebok Human Rights Award. The lecture took place on March 9th at the Harvard School of Public Health.
Yinka, one of the most visible HIV/AIDS activists in Nigeria, uses her leadership and media skills to teach about AIDS and to advocate for the rights of all people living with HIV/AIDS. Amidst an African culture that often subjugates women and their interests, she has focused on the needs of women living with HIV/AIDS. When Yinka was diagnosed with HIV at the age of 19, she experienced denial and stigma, but chose to fight back. She began by joining with a small group of activists to establish the first organization for people living with HIV/AIDS in Nigeria. When she saw that women’s concerns were not receiving the attention they deserved, she formed another organization specifically to empower women by teaching them their rights, providing information and helping them overcome isolation and desperation.
Established in 1988, the Reebok Human Rights Award recognizes young activists who, early in their lives and against great odds, have made significant contributions to the field of human rights strictly through nonviolent means. The Award aims to generate positive international attention for the recipients and to support their efforts. Honorees receive a $50,000 grant from The Reebok Human Rights Foundation to further their work. A total of 76 women and men from 35 countries have received the Award.
Since 2000, the AIDS Prevention Initiative in Nigeria has worked to help Nigeria develop a multisectorial prevention program for HIV/AIDS. The program funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation has supported evidence-based programs in HIV/AIDS policy, mother to child transmission and HIV treatment and care for those infected. In one of the most affected countries in the global HIV/AIDS pandemic, the efforts of individuals like Yinka Jegede bear testimony to the important contributions of courageous individuals in our collective efforts to stop the HIV/AIDS epidemic. Learn more about the AIDS Prevention Initiative in Nigeria here: http://apin.harvard.edu.
|
|
|
