Youth strike chord with guerrilla activism

Young people educating young people about HIV

It is not often that a reporter feels empowered after a daylong interview, but after tailing a group of local youths around Ottawa on World AIDS Day, this reporter returned home energized and pumped up about the power of youth.

The youngsters, from Youth Services Bureau, Insite Theatre and Canada World Youth hauled themselves around Ottawa to raise awareness and educate their peers about HIV/AIDS.

Their campaign, A Day of Action, took the youth — and reporter — to Woodruff High School and the University of Ottawa, where they tackled more than just prevention of HIV/AIDS.

Through the use of a “pledge wall,” school-approved graffiti, flash mobs and street theatre, they focused on fighting stigma and promoting inclusiveness for people living with HIV.

Their day ended at the Human Rights Monument in a tribute to those who have died of AIDS-related diseases.

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Video, Power, Health, News, Addiction, Ottawa, HIV/AIDS

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