World AIDS Day is marked annually on 1 December to unite people in the fight against HIV and AIDS. It was founded in 1988 and continues as a way to show strength and solidarity against HIV stigma and to remember lives lost. This year’s theme is “Overcoming disruption, transforming the AIDS response”, calling for sustained political leadership, international cooperation, and human-rights-centred approaches to end AIDS by 2030.
The National AIDS Trust states: “World AIDS Day exists to shine a light on the real experiences of people living with HIV today, while celebrating the strength, resilience and diversity of the communities most affected.”
In the UK, more than 105,000 people are living with HIV. Globally, an estimated 38 million people live with the virus. More than 35 million people have died of HIV or AIDS related illnesses over the past 40 years, making it one of the most destructive pandemics in history.
The red ribbon is a universal symbol of awareness and support for people living with HIV.
Support and resources
There are a number of national and local organisations which work with people living with HIV, deliver HIV awareness campaigns, and offer training and health advice.
Terrance Higgins Trust are a leading HIV and sexual health charity in the UK.
“We support people living with HIV and amplify their voices, and help the people using our services to achieve good sexual health.”
Lunch Positive is a Brighton charity offering a community space to people living with HIV.
“We aim to create spaces where everyone feels comfortable and included – a great way to make new friends and to find peer support!”
“The Martin Fisher Foundation's vision is to eliminate new HIV cases within a generation by increasing HIV testing, through improving knowledge of HIV, increasing availability PrEP and reducing HIV stigma. Our purpose is to facilitate the city-wide HIV response wherever possible.”
Events taking place in Brighton & Hove to mark World AIDS Day
Brighton AIDS Memorial Vigil
The World AIDS Day Candlelight Vigil remains the central event in Brighton and will take place on Monday 1 December 2025 from 6:00-7:00PM, at New Steine Gardens, Kemptown.
This annual vigil commemorates people connected to Brighton & Hove who have died with HIV and offers the community a space to come together in remembrance, support and solidarity.
The vigil will include a Reading of Names by representatives from civic, statutory and voluntary organisations.
A British Sign Language signer will be present to translate speeches and the Reading of Names.
Actually Gay Men’s Chorus, Brighton Gay Men’s Chorus, The Rainbow Chorus, Resound Male Voices and Brighton Rox are jointly producing this year’s fundraising concert to mark World AIDS Day. This year’s concert features a diverse range of performances from some of Brighton’s most beloved musical ensembles.
Support at Sussex
The University takes incidents of discrimination, bullying and harassment, victimisation and violence very seriously. For more information, including routes for reporting please see the Dignity, Respect and Inclusion policy page.
If you or someone else has experienced behaviours such as bullying, harassment, a hate incident, sexual violence, domestic abuse or discrimination, use our Report and Support tool to let us know.
Students can also find a number of resources and support at the Student Centre.
There are a range of wellbeing resources and support available on the Staff Wellbeing Hub, including the Employee Assistance Programme and Guidance for Managers. There are also peer-led Staff Networks.