International Indigenous HIV & AIDS Community Organization Launched at United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues 2017

VANCOUVER, April 25, 2017 /PRNewswire/ - The Canadian Aboriginal AIDS Network (CAAN), International Indigenous Working Group on HIV and AIDS (IIWGHA), and The Māori, Indigenous & South Pacific HIV & AIDS Foundation (INA) are proud to announce the formation of a new HIV & AIDS Non-Governmental Organization, the International Indigenous HIV & AIDS Community (IIHAC).

The new NGO has been launched in conjunction with the 16^th United Nations Permanent Forum on Indigenous Issues on the 'Tenth Anniversary of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples: measures taken to implement the Declaration.'  

"We have created this critically needed International Indigenous HIV organization to make an impact for Indigenous communities and those who govern them," stated Marama Mullen (Pala) Chairperson of the International Indigenous HIV & AIDS Community. "HIV is impacting our communities and no amount of denial will make AIDS go away."

IIWGHA, INA, CAAN and other Indigenous leaders globally responding to HIV have formed this new community due to the limitations of their previous cooperative structure. This NGO format will better align the Indigenous community to come together from different corners of the world with a shared heart, mind, and passion in the fight against HIV and AIDS.

IIHAC's newly released 10-Point Statement creates a plan of advocacy and action that brings forward the worldviews of Indigenous peoples around the world. "This statement is a collection of demands being addressed by our Indigenous communities and governments," said Trevor Stratton, International Indigenous HIV & AIDS Community Board Member. "This is the only way for us to be a part of the UNAIDS 90-90-90 Fast Track – an ambitious treatment target strategy to end AIDS."  

IIHAC will now join the International AIDS Conference's Conference Coordinating Committee as an International Civil Society Partner. IIHAC will help to plan, coordinate and implement the next two International AIDS Conferences (AIDS 2018 – Amsterdam, the Netherlands, and AIDS 2020 at location to be determined).

About CAAN  www.caan.ca
The Canadian Aboriginal AIDS Network (CAAN) is a not-for-profit coalition of individuals and organizations which provides leadership, support and advocacy for Aboriginal individuals living with and affected by HIV AIDS, regardless of where they reside.

SOURCE Canadian Aboriginal AIDS Network (CAAN)