The iconic AIDS Memorial Quilt signifies loss and love like no other memorial. Since 1985 when the Quilt was conceived by Cleve Jones, it has served to provide context as a teaching tool for a generation that cannot comprehend the enormity of AIDS pandemic devastation in the world.

In collaboration with the AIDS Project of Southern Vermont, the Rockingham Free Public Library and M&T Bank, a 12’x12’ section of the Quilt will be available to the public for viewing on Thursday, December 4 from 11am – 8pm at the Rockingham Free Public Library, 65 Westminster Street in Bellows Falls, Vermont to acknowledge World AIDS Day and the 40th anniversary of the Quilt. Recognition began in 1988 and continues each December throughout the United States. The display will be in the third-floor ballroom space of the library, which is elevator accessible. Members of Bellows Falls Pride and the AIDS Project will serve as docents for the exhibit to provide information and answer questions. The event is free and open to the public.

This year, the Quilt section will include a panel for Brattleboro resident, Ron Squires, who made history as Vermont’s first openly gay legislator, representing the towns of Guilford and Vernon. A tireless advocate, he championed legislation to ban discrimination against gays and lesbians before his untimely death from AIDS-related illness in 1993. Special guest speaker, Attorney Michael Haley from GLBTQ Legal Advocates and Defenders - GLAD Law, will join the event at 7pm.

To arrange a time for a group viewing, please contact Susan MacNeil at susan@svidol.com.