The City of Dijon once again stands out for its commitment to public health and the fight against discrimination. Monday, December 2 at 7:30 p.m., in front of the Théâtre des Feuillants, the official presentation of the label “ City committed to AIDS “. This event will take place in the presence of Christophe Berthier, deputy mayor of Dijon, and Jean-Luc Romero-Michel, president of Local Elected Officials Against AIDS (ELCS) and deputy mayor of Paris.
A label that recognizes Dijon’s commitment to the fight against HIV/AIDS
The label « City committed to AIDS », created in 2011 by ELCS, aims to encourage local communities to actively mobilize against HIV/AIDS, viral hepatitis, and the risks linked to addiction. For Dijon, this recognition rewards years of concrete actions and investments in favor of prevention and support for those affected.
The city of Dijon has distinguished itself by regular support for various sexual health and LGBTQI+ associations. By subsidizing local initiatives, Dijon affirms that the fight against discrimination linked to sexual orientation is inseparable from the fight against HIV/AIDS. There are numerous prevention campaigns in the city, ranging from theatrical performances to funding for reducing the risks associated with addictions. The City’s commitment also involves an active presence on the ground to raise awareness and support the most vulnerable populations.
A local dynamic that echoes the national emergency
The City of Dijon is the first community on the Côte d’Or to receive this label, a strong sign of recognition which underlines its leadership role on these public health issues. With this distinction, Dijon hopes to encourage other cities in the region to join this solidarity movement and increase local initiatives to combat the virus.
Obtaining this label occurs in a context where the health crisis linked to COVID-19 has highlighted the capacity of local authorities to act in the face of emergency situations. The distribution of masks, the opening of screening and vaccination centers are all proof of the effectiveness of local actions. It is time, according to Jean-Luc Romero-Michel, to mobilize these same means to fight HIV/AIDS, while screenings have marked a worrying decline since the pandemic.
Last October, many elected officials from Dijon also joined the transpartisan call launched by ELCS, signing the manifesto “ Urgence Chemsex “. This call aims to demand a public health response to the phenomenon of chemsex, in order to better protect the populations concerned and to fight against stigma.
A message of hope and mobilization
With this label, Dijon sets itself as an example of local mobilizations in the face of global health issues. Christophe Berthier recalled: “ It is together, by acting at the local level, that we can make a significant difference in the fight against HIV/AIDS. » Dijon is committed not only to its residents, but also to inspiring other communities to join the fight.
The award ceremony for this label symbolizes the hope, commitment and solidarity of Dijon in the fight against an epidemic which, despite progress, remains a reality for many people. The City intends to continue to make its voice heard and act, in the name of health, equality and fraternity.
