Jacksonville, December 2, 2025
Jacksonville City Hall honors World AIDS Day by showcasing panels from the AIDS Memorial Quilt, commemorating those lost to HIV/AIDS and promoting awareness. This year’s event included special panels dedicated to local advocates and a community performance, highlighting the ongoing fight against the disease. As the city reflects on local HIV statistics, it emphasizes the importance of education and engagement to support public health initiatives.
Jacksonville Commemorates World AIDS Day with Quilt Display
A heartfelt tribute at Jacksonville City Hall honors lives lost to HIV/AIDS
Jacksonville, Florida – On December 1, 2025, Jacksonville City Hall honored World AIDS Day by displaying panels from the AIDS Memorial Quilt for the 26th consecutive year. This annual event serves to commemorate those who have lost their lives to HIV/AIDS and to raise awareness about the ongoing impact of the disease.
Event Highlights
The City Hall atrium was adorned with numerous quilt panels, each representing individuals affected by HIV/AIDS. Among the displays were two panels with special connections to Jacksonville. One panel honored Evelyn “Peaches” Phillips, a local advocate who passed away in 2009. The other commemorated Kat Newman, a board member of Friends of the Quilt who died in January 2025. Both panels were created by local residents Alice Huntley and Angela Nelson, who dedicated a year to crafting these tributes. The quilts feature symbols like roses, hearts, and cats, reflecting the personal stories of those they represent.
Community Engagement
The ceremony included a performance by Riverside High School students, whose voices echoed through the space as visitors moved around and paused to read names. The event was organized by Friends of the Quilt Jacksonville, a local organization dedicated to preserving the history and memory of those lost to HIV/AIDS. The emphasis on community involvement highlights the positive impacts of individual initiative and local leadership in tackling such crucial public health challenges.
Local HIV/AIDS Statistics
Despite a downward trend in Duval County’s HIV infection rate over the past two decades, the rate remains above the state average. Organizers of the event highlighted the need for continued education and awareness to address the ongoing challenges posed by HIV/AIDS in the community. This underscores the critical importance of ongoing civic engagement and public health initiatives to foster a healthier community.
Background on World AIDS Day
Established in 1988, World AIDS Day is observed annually on December 1 to raise awareness about the AIDS pandemic caused by the spread of HIV infection and to mourn those who have died from the disease. The day serves as a reminder of the global impact of HIV/AIDS and the importance of continued efforts in prevention, treatment, and support for those affected. With ongoing community efforts, Jacksonville remains committed to honoring those lost and addressing the challenges still present in our neighborhoods.
Key Features of the Event
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Event Date | December 1, 2025 |
| Location | Jacksonville City Hall |
| Duration | Annual event, 26th consecutive year in Jacksonville |
| Organizers | Friends of the Quilt Jacksonville |
| Special Panels | Honored Evelyn “Peaches” Phillips and Kat Newman |
| Community Engagement | Performance by Riverside High School students |
| Local HIV/AIDS Statistics | Duval County’s infection rate remains above the state average |
| Background | World AIDS Day established in 1988 to raise awareness and mourn those lost to HIV/AIDS |
Conclusion
The display of the AIDS Memorial Quilt at Jacksonville City Hall serves as both a poignant reminder and a call to action within our community. Those in attendance left with renewed awareness about the importance of education, compassion, and support when addressing HIV/AIDS. As Jacksonville continues to host such impactful events, the collective spirit of community engagement and resilience shines through. Residents are encouraged to participate in future gatherings and support initiatives that aim to foster health and awareness throughout Jacksonville’s neighborhoods.
What is the significance of the AIDS Memorial Quilt displayed at Jacksonville City Hall?
The AIDS Memorial Quilt displayed at Jacksonville City Hall serves to commemorate individuals who have lost their lives to HIV/AIDS and to raise awareness about the ongoing impact of the disease in the community. Each panel represents a person affected by HIV/AIDS, and the display is part of Jacksonville’s annual observance of World AIDS Day.
Who were the individuals honored with special quilt panels in Jacksonville?
The special quilt panels honored Evelyn “Peaches” Phillips, a local advocate who passed away in 2009, and Kat Newman, a board member of Friends of the Quilt who died in January 2025. Both panels were created by local residents Alice Huntley and Angela Nelson, reflecting the personal stories of these individuals.
What is the current HIV infection rate in Duval County?
While Duval County’s HIV infection rate has trended downward over the past 20 years, it remains above the state average. This underscores the need for continued education and awareness efforts to address the ongoing challenges posed by HIV/AIDS in the community.
What is the history of World AIDS Day?
Established in 1988, World AIDS Day is observed annually on December 1 to raise awareness about the AIDS pandemic caused by the spread of HIV infection and to mourn those who have died from the disease. The day serves as a reminder of the global impact of HIV/AIDS and the importance of continued efforts in prevention, treatment, and support for those affected.
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Author: STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER
The JACKSONVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREJacksonville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Jacksonville, Duval County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, Riverside Arts Market, and World of Nations Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce and JAXUSA Partnership, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and entertainment that power the local economy such as CSX Corporation, Baptist Health, and VyStar Credit Union. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
