“Let’s talk about HIV/AIDS” contest

The First Nations of Quebec, the Labrador Health and Social Services Commission and the First Nations and Inuit of Quebec HIV/AIDS Permanent Committee have awarded first prize in the “Let’s talk about HIV/AIDS” contest to Jennilee Wahsquonaikezhik, a 20-year-old Algonquin from Timiskaming, for her poem called “AIDS (You’re never alone).”

Wahsquonaikezhik’s text speaks to an individual living with HIV/AIDS, and it reminds people to express support to those who are infected by the virus. The poem will be part of an HIV/AIDS awareness poster, which will be distributed throughout Quebec.

Because of the contest’s success, organizers have decided to launch another “Let’s talk about HIV/AIDS” contest open to all Quebec First Nations and Inuit under 30.

Entrants must describe in about 20 lines what HIV/AIDS is in a poem, a real-life experience or a story. The contest is open until Nov. 15, 2002, and all entries can be sent to: 250 Place Chef Michel Laveau, 1st Floor, Wendake (QC) G0A 4V0, by fax to (418) 842-7045, and by e-mail to gchastroux@cssspnql.com.

All participants will receive a prize. Some authors will also be invited to Quebec City to attend the next Circle of Hope Forum. Their names will be announced on Dec. 1, National Aboriginal HIV/AIDS Awareness Day.