In observance of 2016 World Aids Day, the Division of Liberal Arts at Indiana University-Purdue University Columbus (IUPUC) and “Arts For Aids” will host an event titled “Unite: A conversation with Bryan C. Jones.” Bryan's conversation will be preceded by a reading of the Declaration of Cange (Haiti) by members of the Asante Children's Theatre.
For the past five years, World AIDS Day events have been held in recognition and support of five HIV-AIDS, Arts For AIDS programs including four in Africa and one in Haiti.
Unite: A conversation with Bryan C. Jones
Thursday, December 1, 2016 | 5 p.m. | Columbus Learning Center, 4555 Central Ave
Jones offers an evening of art and activism via a unique and powerful dramatic presentation of his story living with HIV-AIDS in America. The theatrical presentation is entitled “AIDS…and I Die Slowly.” In addition to experiencing this powerful performance, a perspective is offered in which many gain a deeper appreciation and respect for persons, children, and families who continue to live with the complexity of health, social, and political issues relevant to HIV-AIDS. Also featured in the event are excerpts from the Asante Children’s Theatre of Indianapolis.
In 1984, Jones was a 23-year-old college student diagnosed with HIV. Living with HIV for over 31 years, Jones is on a quest to educate and support others. He proactively founded Gentlemen’s Quarterly: Positive Men Doing Positive Things, which is a support group for men. He shares, "I want to make people realize that [HIV] positive people can be effective in prevention efforts. That's the bottom line; it is what we are all trying to do."
Although Jones lives Cleveland, Ohio, he speaks on a global level. Recently he attended the 2016 International World AIDS Conference in Durban, South Africa, and has also addressed the United States Congress on HIV-AIDS.
On December 1, doors of the Columbus Learning Center will open at 5 p.m. for shopping the global bazaar, appetizers by C4 and Chef Carrie, and a cash bar. Also, before the program, participants will enjoy the African sounds of the Batesville Xylophone Players and DJ Ras Tuli.
Tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for students. Children 12 and under are admitted free with a purchase of an adult ticket. Tickets may be purchased at Viewpoint Books, online at Eventbrite through the website www.artsforaids.org, or via credit card by contacting Deana Bode of Granny Connection at 812.343.4949.
All proceeds will go to encourage and give hope to many whose lives have been adversely affected by HIV/AIDS. Please donate generously!