WASHINGTON, D.C. – DNC Chair Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz released the following statement today recognizing December 1 as World AIDS Day:

“World AIDS Day is an opportunity to remember those we’ve lost, to stand united with those living with HIV, to reduce stigma, to get tested, and to recommit ourselves to eliminating HIV infections worldwide.    

“Under President Obama’s leadership, the United States announced its first comprehensive HIV/AIDS strategy in 2010, and since then, we’ve made significant progress. Our investments in medicine and research have yielded a higher quality of life for those living with HIV and better tools to prevent HIV transmission – including ‘PrEP,’ which can reduce a person’s risk of acquiring HIV by more than 90% when taken consistently.  

“HIV/AIDS impacts us all, but LGBT Americans, African Americans and Hispanic Americans remain disproportionately impacted and there is still much work to do. We must increase our investments in combating HIV/AIDS and ensure that funding for treatment, testing and education reaches those who need it most. As part of the international community, we must continue to invest in new treatments, prevention methods, testing, education, and ultimately, a cure.

“While educating future generations about how to prevent HIV and the history of this epidemic, we must do everything we can to make sure HIV ends with our generation.

“Democratic leadership will help us achieve such a worthy goal because as Democrats, we reject stigma and embrace science while standing in solidarity with those living with HIV. And we support institutions like Planned Parenthood that make widespread HIV testing available. We invite the Republican Party and its candidates for president to join us in this commitment and to stop their attacks on such a valuable institution that saves lives.”