Aboriginal HIV Activist Assuming Lower Profile

Thursday, October 07, 2004 at 13:18

 

 

Aboriginal HIV and AIDS activist Ken Ward is retiring from making any more public appearances.

 

Ward is a Cree from the Enoch Reserve in Alberta who has lived in Prince Albert in recent years.

 

For the last 15 years, Ward has been a national voice for Aboriginal people living with HIV.

 

Ward himself was diagnosed with HIV in 1989.

 

Ward says a number of factors are contributing to his retirement, including his health.

 

Ward estimates he gets 250 requests a year to speak at schools, youth conferences, workshops and other gatherings.

 

He says he plans to pursue a career in journalism, with a focus on HIV awareness.

 

Ward will make one of his final public appearances at a gathering at the Prince Albert Friendship Centre next Tuesday.