PHILIPSBURG--Organisers of this Sunday's observance of the 27th International AIDS Candlelight Memorial say all arrangements are in place for hosting the event.

The Candlelight Memorial is the largest grassroots event associated with HIV/AIDS. This year's reflection will take place at Philipsburg Jubilee Library and will begin at 6:30pm. The programme is heavily centred on performances that emphasise the theme "Many Lights for Human Rights," the organisers stated in a press release on Friday.

"We believe that this Sunday's event is a great opportunity for the entire community to collectively look at how each of us can help to create an environment where people move freely without having to wonder if their HIV status will be a blockade," said HIV/AIDS Programme Manager Suzette Moses Burton.

The organisation of this year's memorial is being spearheaded by Helping Ourselves in a Positive Environment (HOPE), the support group for People Living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA). The Programme Management Team and St. Maarten AIDS Foundation are helping to organise the event.

The evening's programme, a cultural manifestation, will include a candle-lighting ceremony and artistic performances by many local talents. Addresses by specially invited guests are also scheduled on the programme.

For further information, or to volunteer, call Suzette Moses-Burton at 542-2078 or 551-0075.