“Advocacy” is the act of promoting, spreading or defending a certain cause in a systematical, planned way and with direct participation from the affected persons. The purpose is to generate changes in politics, norms, attitudes and social practices that affect certain communities and/or minority populations.
In the case of persons living with HIV and AIDS, advocacy is a tool to improve the quality of life, through the promotion of social and political changes within their environment.
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AID FOR AIDS International (AFA) uses advocacy, as part of their mission and in the development of their programs. It is understood that no assistance or support program is sustainable if social and structural changes are not generated.
Through the years, AFA has forged alliances with different organizations, groups and cooperating agencies, predominantly in the countries where we have a physical presence- through our local satellite offices (Chile, Dominican Republic, Panama, Peru and Venezuela) as well as on a global scale (both regional and global).
The goal of the Department of Advocacy is to identify, construct and strengthen the capacities of the persons living with HIV, so that they can develop and defend their own agenda, in response to the epidemic of HIV and AIDS.
Our work ranges from understanding political dialogue and generating public conscience, to strengthening organizations and/or groups of PLWHA in Latin America and the Caribbean. |
Since 2005, the activities of the Department of Advocacy have focused on cultivating and supporting work done by people living with HIV. In addition, we work against stigma and discrimination by educating the public’s conscience. The support of organizations and/or groups at local and regional levels has been demonstrated through the promotion and strengthening of networks and the construction of capacities for promotion and public defense (advocacy)
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Our key areas of work include:
• Civil Vigilance: We encourage transparency and information sharing in the execution of international resources, such as those of the Global Fund. For this we have developed the “Observatorio Latino” (Latin Observatory), as a tool of communication, information, and citizen control, especially for Latin America and The Caribbean (for more information visit us at www.observatoriolatino.org).
• Training: In collaboration with regional networks, such as REDLA, Latin ICW and local networks of PLWHA, we are developing consistent programs of education for activist leaders. In 2007, we are planning on creating an “Institute of Leadership” to develop leadership capabilities through regional training meetings.
• Access to Treatment: Promote sustainability of activities concerning access to treatments, on behalf of governments. This will be realized through letter campaigns, development and circulation of position statements, and participation in social networks working on this topic.
• Lobby: Actions directed at creating awareness on the part of decision makers. Support and defend the rights of PLWHA, promote better legislation and access to complete and exact information, with regard to HIV and AIDS. To be accomplished by educating politicians on the topics and needs of PLWHA, with legal protection and without discrimination.
How can you support advocacy within AID FOR AIDS?
· Spread and share information: On the Latin Observatory web site, share your experiences and vent your frustrations. What is working for or against improving of the quality of life of PLWHA in your neighborhoods?
· Sponsor a persons' ability/capacity for People Living with HIV and AIDS (PLWHA) in countries of Latin America and the Caribbean.
· Familiarize yourself with our work and mobilize support in your community by spreading the word.
· Visit our local offices and become a volunteer.
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Contact us:
Central office
AID FOR AIDS New York -
Enrique Chavez
Advocacy Director
AID FOR AIDS International
enrique.chavez@aidforaids.org
515 Greenwich St. Suite 506
New York, NY 10013
Phone 1-212-337-8043
Fax 1-212-337-8045
AID FOR AIDS - Peru
Pablo Anamaria
Associate Director
pablo.anamaria@aidforaids.org
Av. Mendiburu 881, Miraflores
Lima - Peru
Phone 51-1-422-4946 |
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