Saturday's Red Umbrella March for Awareness of HIV/AIDS in the African American Community in New Orleans took to the streets from a new location this year...the corner of Orleans and Claiborne under the I-10 Overpass. I've participated in each of the last 3 years in some way, but during the last 2 years I've started doing something that makes the march more real and meaningful to me. Organizer, Michael Hickerson of In this Together, makes sure that everyone who participates has a red umbrella to walk and wave as we wander from St. Phillip to Rampart to St. Bernard to Claiborne and back to Orleans. They really are a special treat. I always give my umbrella to a child along the route before I head home. (And, I always ask the parent if it is okay before I take a photo.)
This year was no different. Now, I'm wondering if this is something we should start doing in a little more organized way. Awareness begins with parents and children. What better way than a red umbrella to wave to feel a part of the march and the importance of the issue! Thanks to all who came out to support such a worthy cause!
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