Welcome to our AIDS Walk Atlanta and 5K Run Team Page! 

The Department of Africana Studies at Georgia State University is founded in a tradition of academic excellence and social responsibility. This responsibility leads us to highlight the impact that HIV and AIDS has and has had on us and our various communities, and to support the individuals and organizations that consistently educate publics about HIV and AIDS and who make a difference in the lives of those affected by the virus. 

Though Black people only make up 13% of the country’s citizens, we account for around 39% of all new HIV cases largely due to systemic oppression, lack of health equity, and other structural determinants. There have been extraordinary advancements in the research and treatment of this virus since it first became and epidemic, and it is no longer the death sentence it was once seen to be, yet not every community has the same access to those resources. In the South research, treatment, and support for those affected by HIV and AIDS is primarily underfunded, highly criminalized, and less accessible than in other areas. Atlanta is in the top 5 cities for new HIV cases in the country. 

As a department, we subscribe to the principles of self-determination for all peoples and intentionally seek to recognize and affirm all of the varied identities that we engage and encounter. As HIV and AIDS have an outsized impact on many of the communities that we belong to we are working to bring attention to this pressing issue, educate and inspire our community to work together, and end the epidemic once and for all. 

We invite you to join us at this year’s AIDS Walk Atlanta event in Piedmont Park. We would be grateful if you were to join our efforts either as a team member, as a donor, through spreading the word, or in whatever way you may like to contribute. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of those affected by HIV and AIDS. 

Thank you for your support and commitment.