AIDS and HIV memorial set to be unveiled in Birmingham
It's been created in Birmingham's Hippodrome Square.
A memorial to honour those lost to AIDS and those living with HIV is set to be unveiled in Birmingham’s Hippodrome Square tonight (December 1).
The launch of the 'Red Ribbons' - Birmingham AIDS and HIV Memorial (BAHM) coincides with World AIDS Day.
The six-metre-high sculpture features two entwined red-ribbon hearts positioned to represent an ‘embrace’. As it weathers, one of the heart ribbons will begin to corrode and rust, representing the millions lost to HIV; meanwhile, the other will be painted red to symbolise those individuals currently living longer and healthier lives with the virus.
Tonight's event in the new Hippodrome Square on Hurst Street will begin with an hour of entertainment, including performances by Chinatown Lions, SOTE School of Theatre Excellence, Rainbow Voices and Hawthorn Primary School Choir.
A candle-lit remembrance procession will then arrive in the square with a samba band and a selection of BAHM quilts from the Cover-Up Project led by the founders and the members of the Sew Marvellous group.
The Red Ribbons will then be officially unveiled at 6.45pm, followed by the laying of a wreath by the Right Worshipful Lord Mayor, a minutes silence and collective song led by the choirs.
Prior to the service, St Martin’s Church will also be hosting a multi-faith and non-denominational service at 4:30pm, which will feature a performance of an excerpt from The Nutcracker by Birmingham Royal Ballet’s Principal Dancers, Brandon Lawrence and Celine Gittins.
Co-Founder of BAHM, Phil Oldershaw, said: “This has been two years in the making and we hope as many people as possible attend to recognise and celebrate this monumental moment in history.
"The entire team have worked so hard and we appreciate every penny and ounce of energy received by the array of supporters in making this happen here in Birmingham.
"This is an incredible piece of art that will stand proud and tall, representing so many people in different ways. It’s finally here!”.
The concept of the BAHM came from local businessman and the designer of the monument, Garry Jones. Having lived with his own experience of the AIDS epidemic, Garry was inspired into action.
Now, with support from co-founders, Andrew Bentley-King and Phil Oldershaw, and successful fundraising campaign to raise £210,000, the sculpture has been completed and installed for the event.
Garry Jones said: “I can’t believe that my vision has finally come to life. I am both nervous and excited that we have achieved something so meaningful to me, and to others.
"I want to thank everybody for their incredible help in making this happen. Please join us to remember and celebrate as we take off the cover and unveil the Red Ribbons on World AIDS Day 2022.”