Karen Shuey: On World AIDS Day, Berks leaders pay tribute to lives lost

Dec. 2—On World AIDS Day, Berks County leaders joined with local activists to remember the lives lost to the deadly disease.

The event was held Wednesday evening in Reading, and attendees included state Sen. Judy Schwank, state Rep. Manuel Guzman, Reading Mayor Eddie Moran and author Kay Haring. It was sponsored by Co-County Wellness Services and the LGBT Center of Greater Reading.

The ceremony included a presentation by Co-County Wellness of its most recent community work to end the HIV epidemic and provide equitable access to health care for all. There was also a candlelight procession to the new location of the LGBT center and a ribbon-cutting for the new facility at 640 Centre Ave.

The event also featured a dedication of selected panels from the AIDS Memorial Quilt, including a panel in memory of Kutztown native and artist Keith Haring, Kay Haring's brother. The AIDS Memorial Quilt panels will remain on display at the center throughout the month.

The LGBT center provides partnership to Co-County Wellness' mission through its own expanded footprint and increased capability to serve the Berks community through its new satellite location.

The display of the AIDS Memorial Quilt panels is a culmination of that partnership, helping to memorialize local loved ones lost to the disease but highlight the hope that is possible through services like those provided by each of the organizations.