Common is set to contribute four original spoken word pieces to the Kaiser Family Foundation’sThe Know is Spreading campaign. The group seeks to normalize HIV/AIDS testing in today’s society.
“I’ve witnessed firsthand the effects of HIV/AIDS and realized the difference self-love and support from the community can make,”Common said. “I also know how much of an influence we as hip-hop artists have on our audiences, so I wanted to share my self and my talents to help open the eyes and hearts of young people to the importance of testing.”
The PSA’s appeared today on Viacom television, radio and outdoor properties across the country. Networks include BET, MTV, Comedy Central and Nick at Nite. 12 PSA’a will run at the same time, four on radio, four on TV, and four for billboards and other outdoors properties.
The city of Philadelphia is also participating. One city block has been turned into an HIV/AIDS awareness mural. The artwork was created by The Barnstormers, and other young artists from the Mural Arts Program in the city.
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“HIV/AIDS continues to be a threat to the people of Philadelphia and across the country. My administration is dedicated to taking innovative steps to highlight the importance of testing to our citizens,”Mayor John Street of Philadelphia said. “That’s why we are proud to support this effort and build on this city’s commitment to tackle HIV/AIDS and on its long tradition of public art. By teaming up with KNOW HIV/AIDS, we are able to spread knowledge about the disease, which will serve as our greatest defense against a growing epidemic.”
KNOW HIV/AIDS combines Viacom’s media brands with the public health expertise of the Kaiser Family Foundation to foster awareness of the disease and its prevention. For more information on this campaign, visit www.knowhivaids.org.
