Opening and blessing of new premises for Māori with HIV

INA (Māori, Indigenous & South Pacific) HIV/AIDS Foundation FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Opening and blessing of new premises for Māori living with HIV

24/05/11

Māori will have their own drop in centre, offices and premise to meet for people living with HIV & AIDS.

“Finally, we have somewhere safe, warm and free from stigma and discrimination for Māori living with HIV to receive the services they need” says Marama Pala, HIV positive Māori woman, Executive Director of INA (Māori, Indigenous & South Pacific) HIV/AIDS Foundation.

“Stigma and discrimination was identified as an area for Māori that creates obstacles for HIV & AIDS service engagement. Recognition of the issue will help us as Māori address it in a culturally appropriate manner.”

The office will be based in Tirau, South Waikato. “Statistically, Māori have shown to be disproportionately represented” says Marama Pala. “We are pleased to be able to spread our wings and do the work.”

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