The Pierce County AIDS Foundation will commemorate World AIDS Day with special programs on Thursday, Dec. 1, in Olympia and Tacoma.

World AIDS Day is an international day of remembrance established in 1988 by UNAIDS to increase awareness, fight prejudice, and improve education about HIV/AIDS.

PCAF has planned two memorial and awareness events in the communities it serves – noon in Olympia and 6 p.m. in Tacoma – each with the theme “Remember. Hope. Act.” Each event will provide an opportunity for the community to commemorate those we have lost to HIV/AIDS, to support people currently living with HIV or AIDS, to unite against discrimination, and to join together in solidarity to end the epidemic.

Olympia – Noon-1:30 p.m., 317 4th Ave E., Olympia.

This lunch hour gathering will feature reflective activities, an art project, and opportunities for conversation and sharing. John Wiesman, Washington Secretary of Health, has been invited to say a few words. Soups, salads and beverages will be provided and guests are welcome to bring a dish to share. All are welcome. For more info, call 360-352-2375.

Tacoma – 6-7:30 p.m., Washington State History Museum, 1911 Pacific Ave., Tacoma.

The program will feature a community art project, a monologue created and performed by members of Black Girl Magical, and an altar to memorialize those lost to HIV/AIDS created by El Batallón Unido. PCAF’s new Executive Director, Erick Seelbach, will be the featured speaker. Members of Tacoma Urban Sketchers will be present to document the event. Refreshments will be provided. American Sign Language interpretation will be offered. Guests are invited to view the museum’s featured exhibits at no charge following the program. For more info, call 253-383-2565.

On the web: www.piercecountyaids.org

– Pierce County AIDS Foundation