During Black History Month, the National AIDS Memorial Grove, which oversees the AIDS Memorial Quilt, has curated a special virtual exhibit of 56 blocks to bring to light the impact the disease has had on Black America.
"This virtual exhibition shares stories of hope, healing, and remembrance to honor Black lives lost to AIDS" John Cunningham, executive director of the grove, stated in a news release. "Our hope is that it helps raise greater awareness about the ongoing struggle with HIV and the impact systemic barriers have to positive health outcomes, particularly among the Black community."
In the 40 years since the first cases of AIDS were reported, the virus has disproportionately impacted Black Americans and communities of color. By 1993, HIV was the leading cause of death for Black men between the ages of 25-44, and by 2004, HIV became the leading cause of death for Black women in the same age group, the release stated.