Activist Communications, Activities at Vancouver Conference

AIDS activist organizations are planning demonstrations and other communication at the XI International Conference on AIDS, July 7-12 in Vancouver. There will be a nightly world activist meetings beginning July 6 (planned for 8 p.m. at The Robson Square Conference Center, underground below the Old Courthouse, Hornby & Robson Streets), possibly an informal meeting on July 5, and a march to the conference site on opening day, July 7. ACT UP chapters, including Golden Gate, New York, Paris, and Philadelphia, are sending people to the Conference; ACT UP/Golden Gate and ACT UP/Paris will have booths on site. There will also be an ACT UP press room, and probably a larger meeting room in addition. At least one activist phone number in Vancouver will have current information at all times.

For more information, contact Paul Davis, pdavis@critpath.org or Jennifer Depiero, jel@dolphin.upenn.edu, or call, fax, or mail either of them at ACT UP/Philadelphia, 215/731-1844, fax 215/731-1845, mail P.O. Box 15919, Middle City Station, Philadelphia PA 19103-0919.

Activists "want to be inclusive in our planning process of the diversity of issues across the planet; therefore we are asking individuals and groups to help us decide what kinds of actions should be focused on during the Vancouver conference." Likely issues already being discussed include drug pricing, forced HIV testing, failed government leadership, and finding international funding (including access to treatment) for people in developing countries.

AIDS activists and organizers in developing countries are particularly invited to submit information and ideas to: Kate Krauss, ACT UP Golden Gate, kate_krauss@out.org, 415/252-9200, fax 415/252-9277; or Jennifer Depiero (addresses above).