Sida Info Services (SIS) is present in the city of Nice this Thursday and Friday as part of a seminar at the Théâtre de la cité. Activities are organized to raise public awareness.
The Sida Info Services (SIS) association fights against AIDS. Its missions: prevention, support for affected individuals and their loved ones, combating associated diseases, fighting against discrimination based on illness and sexuality, and promoting sexual health. Established in 1990, the association has a public service role provided by the Ministry of Health and INPES. This mission is carried out through a toll-free, anonymous hotline: 0 800 840 800. Also, a website www.sida-info-service.org.
The association has moved to Nice for its annual seminar in light of recent figures. There was an 18% increase in HIV-positive cases during the first six months of 2010 in PACA. The seminar allows specialists to provide answers and also raises public awareness through activities spread throughout the city.
Red Ribbon
A human red ribbon was formed on Place Masséna. The staff of Sida Info Services raises their arms and blows whistles. Bystanders stop to look. Nearby, the giant inflatable condom attracts even more attention. Meanwhile, some young men take the opportunity to ask for condoms and leave delighted. After a 5-minute show, the SIS staff heads to the castle. It’s a chance to discover the city in a friendly atmosphere: Place Masséna, the town hall, the opera, Cours Saleya, Place Masséna, the Prefecture Palace, Place Rossetti. Audrey, a performer from the Miranda Company, acts as the guide: “Here is the Prefecture Palace; to find out its history, I invite you to look it up online,” she jokes. The Miranda Company and the Ouvreurs association collaborate with Sida Info Services for the seminar. Françoise, in charge of documentation for SIS, is part of the group: “Oh, I’ve been employed since the beginning!” she laughs. Franck, a part-time employee at SIS, has been handling the telephone help service for many years: “In the morning, there are conferences, and in the afternoon, it’s a bit like a summer camp. We have activities to attract the public and explore the city.” It should be noted that employees of Sida Info Service from all over France have come for the occasion.
Balloon Release
Once on the castle hill, everyone receives white balloons marked with the association’s name and contact information. Once the whistle is blown, the balloons drift away into the sunny sky. It’s already time to leave. On the pebble beach at the foot of the castle lies a white ribbon. The association’s employees cover the ribbon with red carnations. This is certainly the event that draws the most attention. Along the Promenade des Anglais, everyone wonders: “Is it for cancer?” A group photo later, the men in red distribute condoms. It’s fair to say the message has been delivered.
