Washington, DC – DNC Chair Debbie Wasserman Schultz released the following statement today recognizing December 1 as World AIDS Day:

“Today, we come together as a global community to recognize World AIDS Day. It is an opportunity to honor the memory of those we’ve lost, offer our support to those living with HIV/AIDS, and reaffirm our commitment to continuing the fight against this epidemic.

“Across the globe, millions of lives are affected by HIV and AIDS. Under President Obama, America has been a leader in the fight at home and abroad. This administration’s National HIV/AIDS Strategy has aimed to reduce HIV incidence, increase access to care, and reduce HIV-related health disparities. As part of the international community, we have invested in prevention, testing, and treatment, while continuing to search for a cure.

“We have made extraordinary progress since the first World AIDS Day in 1988, but there is much work left to do. Only by working together can we hope to eradicate this terrible disease.”