Thank you for sharing the news of the launch of Global PEERS.  In our time together here in Washington and back home in Wisconsin, I've appreciated your efforts and vision for a sharing of accurate information about health and the HIV/AIDS pandemic.  The impact of HIV/AIDS is especially heinous because of the damage it does to people already disenfranchised and struggling for justice on so many levels.

On behalf of the Center of Concern, I wish to express my support and encouragement of you and Global PEERS in these efforts.  By focusing on education, training, and providing information and access, your programs seek to empower communities to make their own choices. 

Your commitment and hard work reveal a wonderful commitment to justice for all God’s people.  At the recent World Summit on Sustainable Development in Johannesburg, South Africa, it was widely recognized that HIV/AIDS is one of the major obstacles to develop and broad social justice in Africa.  Your efforts to combat it offer the peoples of Africa sincere hope for a better future.

I’m sorry I can’t be with you for your celebration.  Best wishes and rich blessings.  We look forward to ways in which we will be able to support Global PEERS and work with you for a healthier and more just world.

 Sincerely,

James E. Hug, S.J.

President