On Tuesday, Nov. 27, several student organizations came together to show the film adaptation of the Broadway musical Rent and raise campus consciousness about AIDS, in concurrence with the upcoming World AIDS Day on Saturday.
This popular movie depicts several characters living with HIV and AIDS in New York City. NRHH, Kino and Face AIDS presented the movie, along with facts about HIV and AIDS, to students in the College Union ballroom.
This event is an extension of NRHH's annual campaign titled "No Day but Today." This project allows students to write a letter to anyone who has made a significant impact on their lives. Afterwards, NRHH sends the letters, free of charge.
"This year, we wanted to make it bigger and better," said NRHH president and junior Tom Johns. The organization chose to show Rent for its ties to the message behind the "No Day but Today" campaign, which gets its name from the lyrics of a song in the film.
Johns collaborated with sophomore and Activities' Commission Kino director Kevin Duquette, to show the movie. "It's good because it can bring together different student groups."
A member of Face AIDS approached Johns about becoming involved with the event. "Getting involved with Face AIDS lets us focus not only on recognition, but community service as well," said Johns.
According to senior Emily Hurley, president of Face AIDS, "It's the perfect time to show this movie. One of the organization's goals this year is to bring in local issues and show that AIDS is not only a problem in Africa. People here can relate to Rent."
Before the screening, Face AIDS members distributed facts about the pandemic to attendees. In addition, members of Face AIDS sold hand-knit scarves created by the AIDS Community Health Center, the profits of which go directly to Rochester area residents living with AIDS.
"We try to make a difference wherever we can," commented Face AIDS treasurer and senior Tom Cardot.
Geneseo Healthguards were also present at the event to show support for AIDS awareness and to inform students about rapid HIV testing at the Lauderdale Health Center.
"AIDS is an issue that can easily be overlooked," said Healthguard co-coordinator and senior Mallory Howe. "We have to keep in mind that it is a universal problem."