Human Library project challenges discrimination in the Ukraine.

On the 18th of May, the AIDS Memorial Day, the Alliance Ukraine organised a Human Library to help create awareness about AIDS and many other prejudices.
Between 11.00am and 5.00pm in one of Kiev’s central parks, more than 200 readers came to take out one of the 22 books on loan. The event attracted extensive media coverage, including newspaper, TV, internet and radio announcements.

Most popular books.

At this first Human Library in the Ukraine some of the titles offered to the public was a woman living with HIV, an active member of an organisation of people living with HIV talked with readers about taking control of her life and achieving her goals. Another was the sex worker and her situation trying to survive as a homeless sex worker in the Ukraine. The titles also included the refugee from Somalia and a hate crime victim from Nigeria.

“Improving communication between people helps us to respond to stereotypes, discrimination and social inclusion,” said Olga Golichenko, Alliance Ukraine’s Policy and Advocacy officer, and one of the project’s organisers.

“The event was not just about HIV – it was also about diversity and interpersonal communication, which is essential for a successful HIV response for both individuals and society.”

Anya Dovgopol, one of the living books, was convinced that this had been the best project this spring: “The next time people make judgments about certain groups, they will remember the book’s face, and will surely change their opinion to a better one.”

The event was organised by the International HIV/AIDS Alliance in Ukraine, the UN volunteers’ office in Ukraine, Kiev social services, the European Youth Parliament in Ukraine and MTV Ukraine.

“I was convinced I knew everything and had no prejudice towards these people. After reading the first book, I realised how wrong I was. We learned a lot of new information.”

Living library reader, western Europe.

“I want to shake hands with the people who organised everything and express deep gratitude. I think we need many more of such events”

 

READ the full article from the International HIV/AIDS Alliance HERE.