Day Without Art (DWA) began on December 1st 1989 as the national day of action and mourning in response to the AIDS crisis. To make the public aware that AIDS can touch everyone, and inspire positive action, some 800 U.S. art and AIDS groups participated in the first Day Without Art, shutting down museums, sending staff to volunteer at AIDS services, or sponsoring special exhibitions of work about AIDS.

Once again its World AIDS day. Another year. Another loss. Another tear.

And to those we’ve lost: Robert, Marcus, Scott, Roger, John, Stephen, Robert, and the too many others. You are loved. You are missed. You have not been forgotten. Peace.

World AIDS Day, 2007
A Proclamation by the President of the United States of America

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim December 1, 2007, as World AIDS Day. On this day and throughout the year, the red ribbon helps raise awareness of the importance of fighting HIV/AIDS. This year, the White House will display this symbol from the North Portico to represent America’s commitment to this struggle. I urge the Governors of the States and the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, officials of the other territories subject to the jurisdiction of the United States, and the American people to join me in appropriate activities to remember those who have lost their lives to AIDS and to provide support and comfort to those living with this disease.

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