In an effort to challenge the stigma surrounding HIV/AIDS, HIV-positive workers from the International Transport Workers’ Federation (ITF) are among those speaking out on World AIDS Day, December 1, 2014.
ITF unions will be taking part in the day with a variety of activities, including prevention, education, voluntary counselling and testing events, as well as marches and rallies.
ITF HIV/AIDS Programme Co-ordinator Dr Asif Altaf explained: “The ITF has worked tirelessly to tackle the effects of HIV/AIDS, especially among transport workers, who are particularly vulnerable to its effects.
“The often ground-breaking programmes and activities developed with our unions are vastly strengthened by the
experience of those personally touched by the disease, and World AIDS Day is providing a platform through which they can make their stories available to their fellow workers.”
Liton Saha, a Seafarer from India, who is also the Coordinator of a network of HIV positive transport workers said: “HIV positive workers still face huge challenges in terms of discrimination in the workplace and even at home.
“Me and the network of HIV positive transport workers will work hand in hand with ITF affiliates to mark World AIDS Day and challenge HIV/AIDS-related stigma and discrimination not only on WAD but all year round.”
Port Workers Speak Out on World Aids Day. (Source: Darkroom Baltimoresun)
