‘During difficult moments, it’s critical that we come together as a community to raise our voices in collective action,’ says one protest organizer
Activists and advocates are set to rally on Monday against funding cuts to HIV research and global HIV/AIDS programs being proposed by the Trump administration and congressional Republicans during the Conference on Retroviruses and Opportunistic Infections (CROI) in San Francisco. The protest, “Save Our Sciences—Rally to Protect HIV Research,” will take place March 10, 6–7 p.m. at Yerba Buena Gardens, a short walk across Howard Street, from the Moscone Center where CROI will be held.
One of the largest HIV-related medical conferences in the world, this year’s CROI runs March 9–12. More than 3,700 scientists, clinicians and community members have registered to attend.
Organized by the San Francisco AIDS Foundation’s HIV Advocacy Network (HAN) and scientist allies who are attending the conference, the demonstration aims to raise awareness about the potential impact of funding freezes and cuts on critical HIV research and treatment programs. Advocates warn that proposed budget cuts and restrictive changes in policy will jeopardize scientific research, development of new medications and access to life-saving care.
Ande Stone, director of community mobilization and policy at the San Francisco AIDS Foundation, emphasized the importance of collective action during this period of uncertainty.
“During difficult moments, it’s critical that we come together as a community to raise our voices in collective action,” Stone said in a press announcement.
Among the noted advocates and clinicians scheduled to speak at the rally are:
• Vince Crisostomo; HIV Caucus co-chair,Harvey Milk LGBTQ Democratic Club, living with HIV since 1987
• Tyler TerMeer, PhD; CEO, San Francisco AIDS Foundation
• Hyman Scott, MD, MPH; medical director, San Francisco AIDS Foundation
• Mark Harrington; executive director, Treatment Action Group (TAG)
• Naina Khanna; founding executive director, Positive Women’s Network-USA
• Franco Chevalier, MD; infectious disease doctor, UCSF
• Ande Stone; director of community mobilization and policy, San Francisco AIDS Foundation
Participants at the rally will call for accountability and sustained investment in HIV research, underscoring the role of funding in developing new treatments and improving health outcomes globally.
To get more information or sign up for the rally, go here.