The “I Stand with Magic: Campaign to End Black HIV/AIDS” was born from the unique commitments of one man and one company joining forces to address a serious concern in the African-American community in the United States. More than half of all new HIV infections in the U.S. are among African Americans 1, and they are seven times more likely to die of HIV-related illness than Caucasians 2.
Abbott, a leader in HIV/AIDS research and therapies, saw the challenge in the African-American community and joined forces in 2006 with Earvin “Magic” Johnson and the Magic Johnson Foundation. Mr. Johnson is an NBA Legend who announced he was HIV positive 17 years ago, and is a successful businessman and philanthropist. His foundation focuses on supporting community-based organizations and development programs that serve the health, educational and social needs of those residing in minority communities.
Starting the Partnership
The partnership between Abbott and the Magic Johnson Foundation was formed in 2006, with a focus on reaching youth, community leaders and organizations to help break down the cultural and social barriers to reduce the spread of HIV and help people get tested and treated.
Announcing The Campaign to End Black HIV/AIDS
I Stand with Magic: The Campaign to End Black HIV/AIDS, is a broader initiative between Abbott and the Magic Johnson Foundation with a bold goal to reduce the rate of HIV infection by 50 percent in the African-American community over five years by:
- Raising awareness of the rise in new HIV infections in African Americans
- Teaching vulnerable audiences about protective and preventative measures
- Encouraging people to be tested for HIV/AIDS
- Empowering people to seek treatment options
By working together, this partnership hopes to integrate education and empowerment into communities most vulnerable for new infections, while reducing the stigma of the disease.
CLICK HERE TO GO TO MAGIC JOHNSON’S “I STAND WITH MAGIC” WEBSITE. YOU CAN DO YOUR PART, AND JOIN NOW!
About Abbott and HIV
As a leader in HIV/AIDS research, Abbott has made significant contributions to the fight against HIV/AIDS for more than 20 years. In 1985, the company developed the first licensed test to detect HIV antibodies in the blood, and its retroviral and hepatitis tests are used to screen more than half of the world's donated blood supply. Abbott also has developed two protease inhibitors for the treatment of HIV and supports approximately 200 HIV-related clinical studies worldwide.
Additionally, Abbott's Global AIDS Care Initiatives are philanthropic programs focused on combating HIV/AIDS in the developing world, where there is the greatest need for assistance. These initiatives focus on four key areas: strengthening healthcare systems, helping children affected by HIV/AIDS, preventing mother-to-child transmission of HIV, and expanding access to testing and treatment.
About the Magic Johnson Foundation
The Magic Johnson Foundation was established in 1991 as a single-disease organization that worked to raise funds for community-based organizations dealing with HIV/AIDS education and prevention programs.
The Foundation has since responded to the growing need to address all aspects of our youth's lives by expanding its mission. This expanded mission emphasizes the Foundation’s focus on supporting community-based organizations and development programs that serve the health, educational and social needs of those residing in minority communities.
Sources
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. HIV/AIDS Among African Americans. (February 2006). Pg. 1.
- Black AIDS Institute Report, February 2005, “The Time is Now! The State of AIDS in Black America.”
