Multiculturalism will be combined with HIV awareness Saturday for the First ever Art Gala at the Smithers Friendship Centre.
Outreach worker Patricia kolida says they hope to teach people more about prevention and the facts of the chronic illness.
“HIV now is considered a chronic disease – it’s not the death sentence it was years ago…with all the information that’s out there, it seems like the need is still there,” for awareness, explains Kolida.
She says awareness is centered around prevention and treatment. That includes a quick test that can alleviate anxiety waiting for results.
“It’s called the opps clinic, and it’s on the second floor of the court house (in Smithers)..it only takes 60 seconds.”
Kolida encourages anyone to come out for the free event that will involve belly dancing, and other acts and music from a variety of cultures.
The art gala starts at 11 am Saturday with the entertainment starting at 6:30 pm at the Friendship Centre.
They’ll also be announcing the winners of a poster contest.
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