Friday, July 2, 2010

What is the Claiming Our Space Networking Zone?





At the18th International AIDS Conference in Vienna, the first Networking Zone for the United States and Canada will be devoted to the idea of Claiming Our Space: Marginalized Populations Coming Together.

Workshops and dialogues will be presented on pressing issues in the U.S. and Canada such as HIV and racial, ethnic, and geographical disparities; immigration; incarceration; inadequate housing; and treatment wait lists.

In this space, groups from the U.S., Canada, and around the world, who are often challenged by finding space and voice at the International AIDS Conference can come together to create a space for dialogue, to showcase experiences and programs, and to plan for activities at the International AIDS Conference 2010, and looking forward to 2012 in Washington, D.C.

Please join us if you or other participants need:

  • *     a check-in, or meeting space for activists and demonstrators;
  • *     a work space to build props, art, or other activities;
  • *     a message center to catch up with friends and colleagues;
  • *     a space to sell wares;
  • *     forum space for invited speakers, workshops, town hall meetings, or other activities;
  • *     a place to prepare for, debrief from, and discuss announcements of new policies, or research breakthroughs; or

You or your organization can help build the space by contributing:

  • *     fabrics, posters, or banners;
  • *     furniture; or
  • *     audio visual equipment.

Please feel welcome at Claiming Our Space Networking Zone sponsored by ACT UP Philly, African Services Committee, AIDS Treatment Activists Coalition, Canadian Aboriginal AIDS Network, Different Avenues, Health GAP, HIV Prevention Justice Alliance, International Indigenous Working Group on HIV/AIDS, IMPACT, U.S. Positive Women's Network, and Women of Color United.

The Networking Zone will be located in the Global Village and is open to all. Please email claimingourspacezone@gmail.com for more information or to book the space for an activity.