You can make a difference for global neighbors by urging Congress to ensure release of funds for HIV/AIDS programs.
World AIDS Day (Dec. 1) is an opportunity to remember Christ’s identification with “the least of these”(Matthew 25:40) and his words, “I was sick and you took care of me” (Matthew 25:36). This year’s World AIDS Day comes at a time of great uncertainty in the global HIV/AIDS response. The United States has led the world in the fight against global HIV/AIDS for decades, saving 25 million lives through the George W. Bush initiative, the President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR). However, starting in January of this year, the Trump administration terminated many life-saving, global health programs.
The administration continues to withhold an estimated 50% of funds approved for PEPFAR currently, jeopardizing access to HIV medicine and prevention services in countries that need this vital support - including for people served by Lutheran global companion churches in Africa. You can use your voice to urge release of these funds.
While millions of people living with HIV around the world now have longer life expectancy due to broad availability of treatment and care, this epidemic is not over. In 2024, approximately 630,000 people died of AIDS-related illness, and there were 1.3 million new infections (UNAIDS). The United States should uphold its long-held commitment to eradicate HIV instead of terminating and/or withholding resources needed to continue this fight.
As a denomination, the ELCA has supported HIV/AIDS ministries for decades, including through the "The ELCA Strategy on HIV/AIDS" adopted in 2009. Join your voice to these efforts by taking action here.
[Posted: 11/19/2025]
