The National AIDS Memorial Quilt is a profound symbol of remembrance and a testament to the resilience of communities impacted by the AIDS epidemic. UNO is honored to announce its two-panel display. This meaningful event is made possible through the collaborative efforts of

• Jason D. Coleman, Ph.D., MSPH, associate dean of the College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences
• The Gender and Sexuality Resource Center
• The Dr. C.C. and Mabel L. Criss Library Queer Omaha Archives

Dates of the Display

Visitors are invited to attend from Monday, November 27 through December 1 to view three heartfelt pieces at the Milo Bail Student Center Nebraska Room. This offers an opportunity to engage with the stories behind the panels, connecting with the shared history and the personal narratives of Nebraskans affected by the epidemic.

Reception on December 1

On December 1, World AIDS Day, a reception from noon to 2 P.M. will be held in the Nebraska Room. This event provides an opportunity for the community to come together, reflect, and honor those affected by HIV/AIDS.

Historical Significance

The National AIDS Memorial Quilt, founded in 1987, emerged as a grassroots response to the AIDS crisis. It served as a platform for individuals and communities to pay tribute to the lives lost, create awareness, and advocate for research and support. Today, the AIDS Memorial Quilt is an epic 54-ton tapestry that includes nearly 50,000 panels dedicated to more than 110,000 individuals. It is the premiere symbol of the AIDS pandemic, a living memorial to a generation lost to AIDS, and an important HIV prevention education tool. This ever-expanding tapestry of love and remembrance is a visual testament to the staggering human toll of the AIDS epidemic. It comprises thousands of handcrafted panels, each one representing a person who battled HIV/AIDS. The Quilt stands as a powerful reminder of the profound impact of the epidemic on the nation, bringing attention to the struggles and triumphs of those who faced the crisis.

Nebraskan Contributions

The display will showcase quilt panels specifically from Nebraskans who tragically lost their lives to AIDS. These panels tell the stories of neighbors, friends, and family members who, in the face of adversity, contributed to the fight against HIV/AIDS. Their legacies live on through these poignant works of art.

Learning Experiences

Engaging with the National AIDS Memorial Quilt offers an extraordinary opportunity for students to combine academic learning with co-curricular experiences, which has profound implications for their education and the community at large.

• Holistic Learning: Interacting with the National AIDS Memorial Quilt provides students with a comprehensive educational experience. It extends beyond traditional classroom learning, encompassing emotional and social growth, compassion, and a profound understanding of the impact of the AIDS epidemic. This allows students to explore their own personal values, beliefs, and emotions, fostering self-awareness and personal growth. It encourages critical thinking and reflection on important issues related to health, stigma, and social justice.
• Cultural Awareness: The Quilt serves as a real-world canvas where students can apply the knowledge they've acquired in public health, history, sociology, and other disciplines. It bridges the gap between theory and practice, reinforcing classroom learning by connecting it to the stories and lives represented in the Quilt. Students gain an in-depth understanding of the diverse and interconnected narratives of those affected by HIV/AIDS. This experience fosters cultural awareness and appreciation for the LGBTQ+ community's history and struggles.
• Community Engagement: Engaging with the Quilt promotes the development of vital soft skills, such as empathy, active listening, and cultural sensitivity. These skills are invaluable not only in academia but also in future healthcare and social justice careers. Students become engaged with the broader community affected by HIV/AIDS. This involvement nurtures a sense of responsibility, citizenship, and a commitment to promoting awareness and supporting those impacted by the epidemic.
• Enhanced Learning Outcomes: Engagement with the Quilt has been shown to enhance academic learning outcomes. Students who are actively involved tend to have a deeper understanding of the historical context, public health implications, and societal responses to the AIDS epidemic. Students may contribute to raising awareness, advocating for public health, and participating in social justice initiatives related to HIV/AIDS. This benefits not only their own development but also the broader community.

In summary, engaging with the National AIDS Memorial Quilt is a multifaceted educational experience that transcends the classroom. It empowers students to synthesize their academic learning with real-world engagement, fostering personal growth, a sense of responsibility, and a deeper understanding of the issues surrounding HIV/AIDS. This holistic approach not only enriches their educational journey but also empowers them to make a lasting, positive impact on the community and the world.