Oakland, CA (AHN) "HIV causes AIDS, Ignorance Kills, Protect Yourself" is the slogan that the Bay Area National Latino AIDS Awareness Day (BANLAAD) coalition has used for this year's National AIDS Awareness Day on October 15, 2005.

BANLAAD is a coalition formed by a diverse group of agencies, health clinics, medical providers, and volunteers from the San Francisco Bay Area.

In 2003, October 15th was anointed as National Latino AIDS Awareness Day. On September 7th, California approved resolution SCR 56, sponsored by Richard Alarcon (D-San Fernando), Cindy Montanez (D-San Fernando) and Bienestar Human Services, officially declaring October 15th Latino AIDS Awareness Day in California.

Maria Aguilar, Director of Quality Assurance and Data Unit, from the Office of AIDS Administration in Alameda County says, "It is very important to get tested. Testing can be free and anonymous. Getting early medical attention can make a big difference."

She adds, "Parents need to talk to their children about sex, HIV, drugs and similar important issues. The better informed our community is, the fewer infections will occur."