In a moving expression of human solidarity, 180 nations observed World AIDS Day, which has focused attention on the prevention and control of the virulent virus.
In our own state of Utah, various humanitarian organizations have congregated to offer counsel and support to persons afflicted with HIV/AIDS, and ecumenical religious groups have conducted pastoral services to remember the deceased and pray for hope.Across the nation, a new 29-cent stamp featuring the red AIDS awareness ribbon is now available at federal post offices.
Yet while positive and caring activities such as these are taking place, the editors of the Deseret News Readers' Forum are providing a platform for Raeo Passey to vent feelings of bitter anger and hatred and issue erroneous information.
It is disheartening to read the twisted, incendiary pronouncements that call for terminating medical treatment for people infected with the AIDS virus and advocate that "gays [beT simply neutered or sent to live on the proverbial desert island."
In these difficult times, messages of compassion and concern are emerging from all corners of the globe. The Deseret News needs to reflect these moments of sympathy and altruism rather than foster hatred and persecution in the Readers' Forum.
Joel Hancock
Member, Board of Trustees
Utah AIDS Foundation