CREDIT: FOREVERENGLAND.COM
Red scarves bear a resemblance to the red HIV/AIDS awareness ribbon.

On the morning of November 25, downtown London and Stratford will be a sight to behold: hundreds of red scarves will be draped over lampposts, fire hydrants, trees and fences to brighten up the city with a punch of colour and raise awareness for HIV/AIDS. This is the second year of the Regional HIV/AIDS Connection's Red Scarf Project.

“The Red Scarf Project was initiated as part of our agency's efforts to raise awareness in the community about HIV/AIDS and its impacts,” said Meredith Fraser, RHAC's director of education. The campaign is run in support of AIDS Awareness Week, from November 25 to December 1, and World AIDS Day on December 1.

“Most people living in Canada tend to think of HIV/AIDS in a global context as opposed to a local context. Because the virus has been identified for over 30 years, I think sometimes people become desensitized to its impact and its effect,” said Fraser. “AIDS Awareness Week is an opportunity for us to put HIV/AIDS back on the map as an issue of concern, something that affects people in our community every day, and to work to reduce stigma and increase access to appropriate and competent health care.”

Since RHAC is a local agency with a local focus, its team wanted to create a visual symbol that would draw attention in the community. “We thought about red scarves; when they're wrapped around someone's neck, they look like the red ribbon, a symbol of HIV/AIDS. It's one of the first — if not the first — health awareness ribbon.”

Last year, a team of volunteers draped more than 350 red scarves tagged with information about HIV/AIDS around downtown London and Stratford. People were encouraged to take a scarf, wear it to keep warm, and spread information and awareness about HIV/AIDS. “The idea was that people would see them while driving into work,” Fraser said. She woke up early so she could see Richmond Street covered with red scarves. “I got to work just before 8 a.m., and [the scarves] were almost all gone already,” she remembered. Though she didn't see the scarves in their “natural” habitat, she did see people them wearing them throughout the day.

“It was really amazing and wonderful and impactful,” said Fraser. “We were struck and touched by the enthusiasm and the kindness and generosity of spirit extended by the community who made so many incredible and beautiful works of art to help raise awareness and ensure that folks were cozy in the cold months. It was a wonderful success.”

This year, RHAC is hoping to collect 400 red scarves. “We're asking for people to contribute in ways they're able to, feel comfortable with, and enjoy. One of the ways people can make a contribution is to knit or crochet or weave a scarf,” Fraser said. The only two criteria to follow are that the scarves are red and that they are 6x60 in. (15x150 cm.). “Other than that, creative licence is up to the volunteer who's making them.”

If you're a knitter, a crocheter or a weaver, you can donate as many scarves as you like — just give Fraser and her team a heads up first. If you can't knit your way out of a paper bag, RHAC is also accepting donations of red yarn, knitting needles, crochet hooks or money to support the purchase of these materials. All donations must be submitted to the RHAC office at 186 King St. before November 12.

Community members are invited to attend the RHAC's vigils in Stratford on November 30 and in London on December 1. Check out hivaidsconnection.ca for more information. For more information about the Red Scarf Project and to let Fraser know how many scarves you plan to donate, contact her at mfraser@hivaidsconnection.ca.