World AIDS Day, observed annually on 1st December, is an opportunity to unite communities, honour the lives of those lost to AIDS-related illnesses, support those living with HIV, and reaffirm our commitment to ending the epidemic. This year, Sahir chose the theme, “End Transmissions,” to highlight and focus on the Fast Track Cities target of ending new transmissions of HIV by 2030.

Sahir’s Annual Vigils in Liverpool and Wirral

This year, as every year, Sahir House came together to mark World AIDS Day through their annual vigils in Liverpool and Wirral, bringing communities together in shared reflection, remembrance, and hope.

The Liverpool vigil was held at the beautiful Liverpool Parish Church, with Revd Michelle Montrose as the compère for the evening. The hour-long service was a moving tribute to the past and a call to action for the future. It began with a humbling opening speech by Martin Fenerty, a counsellor at Sahir, setting the tone for the afternoon.

The service continued with a professional address from Dr. Rebecca Thomas-Glover, Consultant in Sexual Health & HIV at St. Helens Hospital and Sahir Trustee. Dr. Thomas-Glover reflected on the history of HIV and the ambitious commitment to end transmissions in England by 2030.

The vigil featured a variety of poignant guest performances:

• Choir with No Name captivated the audience with their heartfelt songs.
• MD Productions performed the evocative dance piece ‘See You, See Me.’
• Day Mattar, Co-director of Queer Bodies Poetry Collective, shared powerful poetry.
• The segment ‘Setting Intentions’ by Advocate encouraged reflection and positivity.

These wonderfully creative acts provided moments to reflect on the complex experiences of those living with and affected by HIV. While acknowledging the progress and positivity of the present, the performances also honoured the pain of the past and the ongoing stigma that impacts lives today.

Among the highlights of the evening were the personal reflections. Andrew Arthur celebrated 40 years since his diagnosis, sharing an uplifting message of resilience—congratulations, Andrew! David Smith offered a heartfelt tribute to the glittering life of Giles Edwin Bishop, and another speaker provided a personal reflection on living with HIV.

To close, attendees lit candles in honour of loved ones lost to HIV-related illnesses, sitting in silence as a collective reminder of why we wear the red ribbon. The daytime vigil was well-attended, with hot chocolate and mince pies offering comfort and warmth.

Wirral Vigil at Liberty Bell Coffee

In Wirral, a similarly moving vigil took place on 28th November 2024 at Liberty Bell Coffee, a cherished community venue. The intimate setting provided a unique atmosphere for remembrance and hope.

The evening began with opening remarks from Sahir’s organisers, setting the stage for a series of heartfelt speeches and performances. Guests were treated to contributions from talented singers Daisy Gill, Ellie Burke, and Mollie-Rose, whose moving performances added a special poignancy to the night. Scarlett Rose shared powerful poetry, resonating deeply with the audience and encouraging moments of reflection. Additionally, a talk by CGL (Change, Grow, Live) shed light on their vital work in supporting those impacted by HIV, alongside Sahir, and related issues, further emphasising the importance of community-led initiatives in combating stigma and providing care.

The cosiness of Liberty Bell Coffee was emphasised by these contributions, allowing quiet reflection and connection among attendees. One of the most poignant moments of the evening was the communal lighting of candles. This simple yet powerful act symbolised unity and hope, bringing the community together to honour lives lost while looking ahead to a brighter future.

As with the Liverpool vigil, the Wirral event underscored the importance of community in combating stigma and ensuring that no one feels left behind. The warmth of the venue and the supportive environment made the vigil a truly memorable occasion.

Looking Ahead

As Sahir House looks towards its 40th anniversary in 2025, plans are already underway for even larger commemorations and activities. These annual vigils in Liverpool and Wirral serve as a reminder of the importance of remembering the past, taking action in the present, and building a future free from HIV-related stigma and illness.

If you missed this year’s events, consider joining next year’s activities. Whether through attending a vigil, volunteering, or simply wearing a red ribbon, every action contributes to the collective fight against HIV/AIDS. Together, we can ensure that no one is left behind.