Sheila Jackson Lee: “I thank you, and I want to extend my courtesies to the gentleman from Texas for his courtesy as well, Mr. Al Green. I…”

“I thank you, and I want to extend my courtesies to the gentleman from Texas for his courtesy as well, Mr. Al Green. I stand here today because this is World AIDS Day. Since 1988, we have commemorated World AIDS Day. I have on my lapel, if you will, on my shawl, a red ribbon which symbolizes remembrance. Earlier today I called in to the Thomas Street Clinic, as I have celebrated with them for many years, and while I was in Washington, I wanted to give them the recognition as fighters against HIV/AIDS. It does not seem that long ago, but HIV/AIDS affected many around the world before the disease even made its way to America's shores. Countless researchers, healthcare providers, politicians, and educators have contributed to the global initiative to contain and eventually eliminate its presence in all corners of the world. I remember going to Zambia on the first Presidential trip dealing with HIV/AIDS around the world. 38.6 million people worldwide were living with HIV at the end of 2005, and more than 25 million have died of AIDS since 1981. In December, we remember that, and that is what this day is: a day of remembrance, when an estimated 1 million to 1.2 million HIV-positive individuals live in the United States and approximately 56,000 new infections occur every year. Mr. Speaker, my district is impacted, upwards of 22,000 people. Texas is impacted. Today is a day of remembrance to honor those we lost and to commit to those we fight for. Mr.…”