Princess Diana features in a film narrated by Prince Harry. The Prince also speaks for his mother in an open letter to the UN. Diana is remembered for her tireless efforts to raise awareness for multiple global issues—but it's how she changed people's perception about HIV and AIDS that the Princess is remembered today.
- Princess Diana features in a film narrated by Prince Harry, released on World AIDs Day, December 1, 2021.
- In an emotional letter to the UN he spoke on behalf oh his mother, who changed the world with one photo.
- In other royal news, How the Queen’s Christmas decorations pay tribute to Prince Philip
Princess Diana's appearance in a film, narrated by her younger son, raising awareness about the ongoing battle against HIV and AIDS is another sign that he's carrying on her legacy.
From the time Prince Harry and Meghan Markle made an important donation to LA charity, to their ongoing work to fight for vaccine equity, the royal couple are making themselves known for their philanthropy.
Previously, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle wrote an open letter to G20 leaders—asking them to 'vaccinate the world' and the Prince draws a comparison between COVID-19 and HIV/AIDS in his latest letter.
"On this World AIDS Day we recognize the 40 years that have shaped life for many. We honor those whose lives have been cut short and reaffirm our commitment to a scientific community that has worked tirelessly against this disease," begins the Prince's letter.
His letter to Winnie Byanyima, Executive Director UNAIDS, and Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesu, the World Health Organization's Director-General, on World AIDs day, continues with a special note on his late mother's behalf.
"My mother would be deeply grateful for everything you stand for and have accomplished. We all share that gratitude, so thank you."
On #WorldAIDSDay, @Winnie_Byanyima joins Prince Harry, The Duke of Sussex, calling on the world to join a movement to ensure that pandemic-science for HIV & COVID-19 reaches not just the rich, but all who need it most. pic.twitter.com/abLT3rzVKjDecember 1, 2021
In the early and mid-80s lack of understanding and misinformation, surrounding HIV/AIDS, terrified people across the globe—as documented in the hit drama series 'It's a Sin.' Princess Diana helped to turn public opinion in April 1987 when she made one, seemingly innocuous, gesture.
The BBC reports that the Princess opened the UK's first purpose-built HIV/Aids unit, with the sole purpose of caring for patients infected with the virus, at London Middlesex Hospital.
The hospital's opening saw Princess Diana shaking the hand of a man suffering from the illness. In not only shaking his hand but doing so without gloves, the royal dispelled the myth that HIV/Aids was passed from person to person by touch.
Princess Diana's gesture showed that those suffering from the illness deserved compassion, kindness, and understanding. That they were and are human beings, as opposed to the fearful image many held.
It's been 40 years since the first cases of AIDS, the advanced form of the HIV virus were reported. In the years since scientists, medical professionals, and activists have fought tirelessly, and continue to fight, against the disease.
If you'd like to learn more and how you can help, check out the UNAIDS site here
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