November 2001

Unique U.S. Conference on AIDS

The Rev. C. William Frampton III, NEAC Co-Chair

The U.S. Conference on AIDS was scheduled for Miami on September 12–16. With over 3,600 people registered. it was expected to be the largest ever—but the events of September 11th would prove to disrupt all of our lives in many ways. I happened to be in Florida early, so traveling to Miami was not a problem for me but for over 3,000 people getting there proved too much and the event was cancelled.

Those of us already gathered decided to make the best of the time and talent already present and stage our own mini-conference. The big-name keynote speakers like Winnie Mandela were unable to make it, but we pulled the resources of the people there (some traveled for over 20 hours by car from Michigan, Ohio, and Pennsylvania) to offer what we could.

Although not what any of us had anticipated or expected, the conference was nonetheless an amazing experience—in fact one of the highlights of my 10 years in the priesthood. With the tragic events of Sept. 11 weighing heavy on our minds, the participants spoke about God and faith to an extent that I have never heard in my years of attending national HIV/AIDS conferences.

Those in crisis, whether it be a national tragedy, illness, or questions about our own mortality, often turn to faith to find solace and comfort. Many who have been involved for the past two decades in the AIDS struggle know this; faith-based organizations like NEAC provide a much-needed service.

We never know where God will call us to be a messenger but I do believe that I was meant to be in Miami for the cancelled USCA. As a person of faith it was important for me to share with others the fear, uncertainty, and—yes—the hope that we find as children of God.

I find it hard to believe that anyone can say they are the same after September 11. The US conference will never be the same either, because this year people of faith publicly bonded together to share a renewed spirit and a common mission. I hope this energy continues in small towns and big cities across the country until the next time we meet!