WAD Red Ribbon

The red ribbon is the international symbol of HIV and AIDS awareness and was conceived over 13 years ago by a group of artists in New York called "Visual AIDS". The ribbon was chosen to represent support for those living with and affected by HIV/AIDS.

Each year all monies raised through the sale of red ribbons during AIDS Awareness Week and World AIDS Day around Australia go towards providing support services for people living with HIV/AIDS including medical services, counselling services, support and peer education groups.

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The artists sought to create an image which would be simple, yet bold, able to make an impact wherever it was seen. Red was chosen to symbolise blood and danger. The tails of the ribbon pointing down was chosen to symbolise life flowing away.

In the 13 years since its debut at the Tony Awards in New York, USA, the image of the ribbon has been seen all around the world. Volunteers in many countries give their time and effort to produce the enormous number of ribbons required around the globe on World AIDS Day.

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Red ribbons have been made in an enormous variety of designs, incorporating hearts, human torsos, and national emblems to name but a few. Red ribbons need not only be the small lapel type which have been most common; giant ribbons on the Sydney Harbour Bridge have made a huge impact on those who saw them and in the media.

Ribbons of silk, metal, pottery, glass, plastic and even human bodies have helped to promote the message of awareness and solidarity.

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The tremendous success of the red ribbon has seen the concept borrowed by many other organisations and we now have ribbons of every colour and hue, promoting other causes for awareness. We can be pleased that HIV/AIDS has been able to benefit many other worthwhile causes in this way.

SHOW YOUR SUPPORT

The red ribbon is a simple way in which we can, as individuals or in groups, declare our support for those living with and affected by HIV/AIDS. It allows us to show that those who have died are not forgotten, and that we care about those living with the difficulties of a chronic condition.

Anyone can wear a red ribbon. No matter who you are, you can demonstrate that you have an understanding of the issues surrounding HIV and AIDS by wearing a Red Ribbon, and showing that you care.

Red ribbons are available from selected retail outlets throughout Australia. To find out where to purchase a red ribbon in your local area, please contact the AIDS Council in your State or Territory (for contact details see the 'Where to Find Help - Fact Sheet').