In order to raise awareness about the issue of HIV/AIDS a group of 1,000 journalists are to meet in Washington, D.C. on September 9th for training and mentoring. The group will be educated on how to correctly address the issue in the media. The efforts of these 1,000 journalists are estimated to reach an audience of 150 million. Four countries in specific (India, Nigeria, Kenya, and Ethiopia) are also sending leaders to attend the conference in September. Dr. Zivetz and a panel of at least seven other professionals will speak on correct AIDS information and homosexuality. This event has been arranged by an international media development nonprofit agency.
The journalist of this particular article states that “[a]s the messenger, journalists have the ability-literally-to save lives”. I feel that this bit of information is some of the most influential data in the article. Not only are the journalists being properly trained and informed on the issue of HIV/AIDS as well as homosexuality, but that they are also asked to spread the word to as many viewers/readers/listeners as possible. The informing of audiences by journalists on this topic is not a matter for one, two, or even three countries. Every country, whether developing or modern, can learn from this initiative. If this program only meets one third of the estimated population, even then four million people may better understand the disease as well as which preventative measures to take to keep potential partners safe as well. I do not see how this program, one that informs and brings about awareness of such “vitally important” issues, could be portrayed negatively.
http://www.marketwatch.com/news/story/more-1000-journalists-enlisted-fight/story.aspx?guid=%7BD1065FE1-9A59-433F-8398-1E903C246B82%7D&dist=hppr
1 comment:
I think this a great thing. Many have misconceptions on AIDS and therefore are afraid of it. Knowledge of the disease is growing, and I feel if more are better informed we have a greater chance to, like you said, save lives.
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