HIV organizations will gather on Wednesday, July 22 at the Thompson Center to rally for a Positive Budget
WHAT: Join the AIDS Foundation of Chicago ( AFC ) for the Rally for a Positive Budget. Together, we will stand up and demand a fair budget that does not lay Illinois' fiscal burdens on its most vulnerable communities.
The legislative session started with the health and lives of individuals living with and impacted by HIV facing serious threats and it hasn't gotten any better.
In February, Governor Bruce Rauner proposed a draconian budget that contained a $1.5 billion cut to Medicaid, a $6 million reduction to HIV funding representing a 25% cut and slashing the funding for the African American HIV/AIDS Response Act by 66% to $500,000.
After a contentious legislative session in Springfield this spring, state legislators and the governor failed to come to an agreement on a new budget, creating a shutdown in state government. With no budget, HIV/AIDS-related services that are normally approved by the state, including the AIDS Drug Assistance Program ( ADAP ) and the processing of HIV/STI tests by state labs, are in flux. This means that thousands of Illinoisans living with HIV may not have access to the medications they need to stay healthy.
The budget crisis has far-reaching effects for all of Illinois and some very serious consequences for those living with HIV. The people of Illinois will not tolerate the suspension of ADAP and other essential programs and services. Instead, we will fight back, speak out and demand that Illinois Pass a Positive Budget.
WHEN: Wednesday, July 22, 10 a.m.
WHERE: James R. Thompson Center, 100 W. Randolph Street, Chicago IL
RSVP: Register here. For more information, call Daniel Frey at 847-471-0379.
Founded in 1985 by community activists and physicians, the AIDS Foundation of Chicago ( AFC ) is a local, national and international leader in the fight against HIV/AIDS. AFC collaborates with community organizations to develop and improve HIV/AIDS services; fund and coordinate prevention, care, and advocacy projects; and champion effective, compassionate HIV/AIDS policy. To learn more, visit www.aidschicago.org .