Red ribbon

The history of the red ribbon

The Red Ribbon is the international symbol for HIV and AIDS awareness. The Red Ribbon was created in 1991 and has been an important symbol for HIV work ever since. By wearing the Red Ribbon, you can support the work of people living with HIV.

In 1991, Visual AIDS in New York had an idea for an international symbol for the fight against AIDS. A symbol of solidarity and tolerance with those who are often discriminated against by the public - those living with HIV and AIDS. In the style of the Yellow Ribbon - which was popular in the US at the time as a symbol of support for the soldiers in the Gulf War - the Red Ribbon was created.

After the first events in the New York art world, Visual AIDS set its sights on the Tony Awards. In a spontaneous campaign, volunteers sent letters with the red ribbon to all performers. Film actor Jeremy Irons was the only one wearing the symbol that night and the television audience had not been informed of the meaning of the new symbol.

The Red Ribbon came to Europe in spring 1992 when more than 100,000 Red Ribbons were distributed during the Freddie Mercury AIDS Gala at Wembley Stadium in London. More than a billion people in over 70 countries worldwide watched the concert on television. On the same day, Red Ribbon International was founded in London.

Source: Red Ribbon International