Governor Cuomo Marks World AIDS Day as New York State Continues Progress Toward Ending the Epidemic

Governor Cuomo observed World AIDS Day – a global day of action to commemorate those who have died as a result of HIV/AIDS and to recommit to combatting the epidemic. Marking the occasion, the Governor announced a $500,000 commitment from the State to help fund the New York City AIDS Memorial. Additionally, the Governor has directed that the lights on One World Trade Center’s 408-foot spire, as well as the top of the Alfred E. Smith Building and the SUNY System Administration Building in Albany, light up red tonight in recognition of World AIDS Day.

The Governor made these announcements at the Apollo Theater in New York City, where he also received the World AIDS Day Leadership Award from the End AIDS NY 2020 Coalition. Because of the Governor’s actions, New York State is a national leader in providing high quality support services to individuals infected with HIV/AIDS, directing more than $2.5 billion annually to fight against the disease.

“Today, we honor the friends, relatives and loved ones who have died because of this terrible epidemic, and we pledge to do whatever is necessary to end AIDS in the near future,” said Governor Cuomo. “I believe that every state has an obligation to end AIDS, and here in New York, we are leading by example. We are expanding testing, ensuring that everyone with HIV can get treatment, and breaking down barriers to preventive medicine. New York State is rapidly closing the gap against this epidemic, and we will not stop until it is a thing of the past.”