Tuesday, Nov 18, 2014
Two dozen clubs and organizations helped create the quilt
by Aimee LaBrie
All members of the Rider community are invited to view the University's AIDS memorial quilt, on display Nov. 18 in the Cavalla Room of the Bart Luedeke Center. Constructed by clubs and organizations from around the University in 2004, this quilt illustrates Rider's commitment to support those whose lives have been touched by the AIDS/HIV epidemic. Dedicated to continuing to bring awareness to AIDS/HIV, 24 clubs and organizations participated in creating the quilt, including Ziegler Hall, the Psychology Club, the Black Student Union, Hillel, Lambda Theta Phi and many others.
Since the inception of World AIDS Day in 1988, quilts like this one have been displayed to serve as tangible reminders of those who lost their lives to this deadly disease, as well as a recognition of the more than 34 million who live with HIV, or Human Immunodeficiency Virus, an infection that can lead to AIDS.
“Displaying the quilt is a way for us to show our solidarity and support for those who have lost loved ones to AIDS, as well as those who live daily with HIV,” says Pam Pruitt, Rider’s director of multicultural affairs.
The quilt is also meant to emphasize the seriousness of HIV and AIDS. "We need to remind everyone to adhere to safe practices in personal relations with others,” Pruitt says. “AIDS does not discriminate.”
The first memorial quilt went on display at the National Mall in Washington, D.C., on Oct. 11, 1987, as part of the National March on Washington for Lesbian and Gay Rights. In 1989, the quilt was nominated for a Nobel Peace Prize. It remains the largest art project in the world.
For questions about the quilt or the event, contact the Office of Multicultural Affairs at 609-895-5781.