To demonstrate our collective commitment to GIPA the principle of the “Greater Involvement of People with HIV/AIDS” the Ontario AIDS Network is partnering with people and organizations to recognize 2012 as the year of GIPA.Guiding our work is the newly proclaimed Ontario Accord on GIPA/MIPA which states,
“We, people living with HIV/AIDS and allies in the community:
Commit to the greater involvement and meaningful engagement of people living with HIV/AIDS (GIPA/MIPA); GIPA/MIPA puts PHAs at the centre and is grounded in human rights and the dignity of the full human being
Because GIPA/MIPA is about human struggles and aspirations, ethics, empowerment and accountability are its foundation.”This Accord was created by representatives of Ontario organizations at a Living and Serving 3 consultation meeting in July 2011
In proclaiming 2012, as the year of GIPA we acknowledge that GIPA is never achieved once and for all; it is a goal and commitment that must be continually renewed. GIPA is a practice, not a project, and is similar to all other accountabilities of healthy HIV organizing and service delivery. Our practices in AIDS service organizations (ASOs) must be continually re-evaluated in light of the changing realities of HIV/AIDS and of those living with it.
Within the North American context, GIPA principles have often been considered as only applying to persons living with HIV/AIDS. We affirm that GIPA concerns all who live with, work in, and are affected by, HIV/AIDS. Another way of stating this is that GIPA engages people with HIV/AIDS and their allies in a culture of inclusivity intended to foster an expanding and inclusive approach that embraces HIV Positive individuals in all their diversity and circumstances and includes those affected by HIV/AIDS and all allies.
In naming this accord, “The Ontario Accord” we acknowledge the foundational work that continues to inspire us and have continued the precedent of naming our work after its geographic birthplace. We invite citizens of the world to join us in our efforts and organizations globally to affirm their support of the Ontario Accord
To learn more about the Ontario Accord and its roots in our community please refer to the following documents
During this year 2012, we are challenging organizations that serve people and communities affected by and living with HIV to take action and make a commitment to the GIPA Principle. Organizations that have formally endorsed the Ontario Accord and have created a GIPA action plan for 2012 will be listed below
