S. Africa and HIV, an exhibit

I vistited an exhibit of art made by kids around the ages of 10-12. These kids are educated about HIV and AIDS to reduce risky behaviors, to combat stereotypes, increase self-esteem and impact self-advocacy.

I took just a few pix of the poignant works I saw.

Statistics say that there are about 1.2 million AIDS orphans in South Africa. The impacts run from emotional distress of loosing a parent, to having to become the "adult" child taking care of siblings, missing out on school to stigmatization in society. The organization that put on the exhibit hopes to give these children dignity and purpose. To help them be active members of their community and overcome the victimization so prevelant with this disease.

A link to the organization that provides support through arts programs to children in the Western Cape: http://www.madaboutart.org/AboutUs.aspx?expand=MadIdea&file=AboutUs-MadIdea