Sydney’s annual AIDS Candlelight Memorial is the opportunity for our community to gather and remember those we have lost to HIV/AIDS.
This year’s Sydney Candlelight Memorial will take place at the Eternity Playhouse in Darlinghurst from 3pm on Sunday 19th May. Theatre doors open from 2:45pm.
The AIDS Candlelight memorial has been held annually for over two decades. It is timed to coincide with International Candlelight Memorial Day on the third Sunday of May each year.
The event is co-produced by ACON, NSW’s leading HIV prevention, HIV support and LGBTI+ health organisation, and Positive Life NSW, the peak state-wide peer organisation representing the voice of all people living with HIV across NSW.
At the Sydney Candlelight Memorial, the names of lost loved ones are read out. Following a presentation by Lyle Chan and a musical performance by vocalist Mary Kiani, canapes and light refreshments will be available in the foyer.
Positive Life NSW CEO Jane Costello, says the Candlelight Memorial is an important event on the calendar for all people living with HIV along with our allies, family and friends.
“The global day of remembrance provides a unique opportunity for the loved ones of all the people we lost to HIV/AIDS to honour them, remember them and celebrate their lives,” she says.
“On this International Day, we pay tribute to those in our community we have lost as individuals, while we also unite and stand in solidarity with all people living with HIV today across the world.”
ACON CEO Nicolas Parkhill says the event provides an important opportunity for reflection and remembrance.
“On International Candlelight Memorial Day we remember the loved ones we have lost to HIV/AIDS. We treasure our memories of those who have gone. We say each of their names. They brought their light into the world and we will never forget them.”
Sydney Candlelight Memorial 2024
Sunday 19 May. Doors open 2:45pm for 3pm start
Eternity Playhouse, 39 Burton Street, Darlinghurst
Names can be lodged on the Candlelight website at www.candlelight.org.au