Wednesday, February 8, 2006— February 7, 2006, is a day that will stand in the annals of history in the HIV/AIDS movement. This year on February 7, as African-Americans across the country commemorate NATIONAL BLACK HIV/AIDS AWARENESS & INFORMATION DAY, Mrs. Coretta Scott King, a staunch HIV/AIDS advocate, will be laid to rest.

Mrs. King helped to shape the issues and frame the discussion about discrimination against people infected and affected with HIV/AIDS. In June 2001, Mrs. King was the keynote speaker in Atlanta, Georgia during the National Black Leadership Commission on AIDS Health Summit on HIV/AIDS. Her dedicated work and commitment will forever live on in our hearts.

National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness & Information Day will continue to connect with Mrs. King as we work together on February 7, 2006. Our love and prayers are extended to the King family.

NBHAAD is a national mobilization effort designed to encourage African-Americans to get educated, get tested and get involved with HIV/AIDS. NBHAAD is being sponsored by fourteen national organizations that comprise the Strategic Leadership Council, in collaboration with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Abbott Laboratories is a major supporter of this event.