US Skips World AIDS Day Commemoration Since 1988

For the first time since its inception in 1988, the United States government will not officially commemorate World AIDS Day on December 1, according to a directive from the State Department. The instruction, issued earlier this month, prohibits employees and grant recipients from using federal funds to mark the occasion or publicly promoting it through social media, speeches, media engagements, or other channels.

The policy stems from a broader federal approach to avoid messaging on commemorative observances, as outlined in an internal email reviewed by officials. While personnel are barred from using government resources for promotions or events, they may still highlight ongoing U.S. efforts to combat HIV and AIDS through programs like the President's Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, known as PEPFAR. Employees and grantees are also permitted to attend externally organized events related to the day, though they cannot promote their participation online or speak at such gatherings.

State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott explained the shift as part of a modernization effort. "An awareness day is not a strategy," Pigott said. "Under the leadership of President Trump, the State...