Media.Knet.Ca

News Release

“I had sex without a condom with someone I hardly know, is it possible for me to have contracted HIVor a Sexually Transmitted Infection? What do I do now?”

(Ottawa—December 5, 2008) Aboriginal youth now have a new on-line resource to help them get answers to these and other questions about HIV/AIDS, thanks to a new website.

“Our new, youth-oriented website is about teaching youth the importance of self-respect as a basis to protect themselves and providing accurate and up-to-date information so youth can make the best possible choices to avoid infection,” stated Kevin Barlow, Chief Executive Officer of the Canadian Aboriginal AIDS Network (CAAN).

“Aboriginal youth are three times as likely to become infected as non-Aboriginal youth. Given the high birth rate among Aboriginal peoples, the rates of HIV infection could reach epidemic proportions if nothing is done to stem the tide. We hope Aboriginal youth will use this valuable resource to stay safe,” he concluded.

In addition to an interactive Blog, CAAN’s Youth Website provides useful information on a number of topics:

Basic information: HIV/AIDS is a serious concern for all Aboriginal communities, including First Nations, Métis and Inuit. While there are many opinions about the causes of HIV/AIDS, it is important to realize that this disease is entirely preventable.

Protection: It provides a variety of ways to protect and eliminate, or reduce the risk of exposure to HIV, the virus that leads to AIDS. Protecting oneself against HIV can also mean protecting against unwanted pregnancy and, in some cases, against transmitted infection.

Safer sex: The only true safe sex is to have no sex at all but for many people this is not a reality. While the site does not encourage anyone to have sex before they’re ready, it provides information for those who are going to have sex sp that they are aware of all consequences and responsibilities involved.

Sex and Sexuality: contains information about making positive life choices.

Aboriginal Culture: provides basic information on the cultural differences between Aboriginal peoples in Canada.

Visitors to the site will also be kept informed on upcoming events across Canada. Other programs and services being designed including an Aboriginal Youth Council led by Aboriginal youth themselves. An action plan, including an updated version of a peer education model called ‘Young Eagles Challenge” will be conducted in the next twelve months. “It is critical to get the message to Aboriginal youth by Aboriginal youth, so that there is greater acceptance of accurate information and ownership by Aboriginal youth to support one another, especially when diagnosed with HIV or AIDS” added Barlow.

-30-

Media inquiries: Kevin Barlow, Chief Executive Officer, Canadian Aboriginal AIDS Network (613) 567- 1817 ex 110, mobile : (613) 277-1817 or email kevinb @ caan.ca (no spaces)

Media inquiries or for more information: Kanatiio, Senior Communications Advisor, Canadian Aboriginal AIDS Network: (778) 928-1590 or email kanatiio @ shaw.ca (no spaces)

Or visit www.caan.ca/

To view CAAN publications, please visit http://www.caan.ca/english/publications.htm

December 1-5 was Aboriginal AIDS Awareness Week