December 1st is World AIDS Day. Here in Canada, we have a choice about how actively to be involved in the issues of AIDS.

The rate of death from AIDS in Canada has declined dramatically. Our public education and health systems -- despite threats from cuts and privatization -- have still been able to carry out broad programs of AIDS education and treatment. Anti-retroviral drugs are freely available.

Thanks to the impressive work of AIDS activists, the stigma and mystery surrounding AIDS have largely disappeared. Although communities with high levels of poverty, homelessness and unemployment are still very vulnerable, the majority of our members do not live in daily fear of this life-threatening virus.

The AIDS crisis in Africa

On the weekend the 2010 FIFA World Cup ends here are a few reflections...

Four years ago, Canadian viewers of the Soccer World Cup were treated to colour commentary on how the Togolese might struggle with 26 Celsius heat of Northern Germany. Although sports commentary frequently has such inanities, coverage of this World Cup, in South Africa, has had more insidious issues particularly regarding the portrayal of African nations. Canadian media coverage is damaged by continued ignorance of Africa, stereotyping and double-standards which are at times dehumanizing.

The myth of one Africa

Along with a friend, my partner, and my 30-year-old son, I attended the rally at Queen's Park on Saturday, June 26, 2010 and the subsequent march. I confess to being somewhat fearful about attending, what with all the warnings about expected violence and public safety, but it was exactly because of that fear that I felt I had to attend.

The G20 is failing Africa, both in terms of delivering on development promises and in providing the African Union with a permanent voice within the international political club. This was the message delivered by the Global Call to Action Against Poverty (GCAP) members during a Saturday press conference at the Toronto summit's Alternative Media Centre.

"Africa, as a continent, just as the EU does, should have a permanent seat at the table. Over 52 states are excluded. Countries rich in natural resources that the whole world has benefited from are excluded. Countries rich in human resources are excluded," said Sonia Kawami, GCAP Project Co-ordinator for Ghana.