Elton John’s call to the British parliament to end AIDS: ‘Don’t waste your time’

In an emotional call to action, Elton John, renowned for both his legendary music career and his commitment to the fight against HIV, addressed British lawmakers at a special event at the House of the Grand Speaker of Parliament. The artist’s message resonated in a room full of political leaders and activists, urging them to spare no effort in the battle against the disease. I implore you not to waste the time allotted to you as political leaders,” John said, emphasizing the need for strong action. “Take action and take things a little further than what is comfortable for you. And while you’re at it, I can promise you this: I’ll be there with you.” With a track record dating back to 1992, when he founded the Elton John AIDS Foundation, the musician has been an advocate for awareness and fundraising for HIV prevention and the reduction of associated stigma. Speaker of the House of Commons Lindsay Hoyle praised John’s exceptional contribution to the global fight against HIV and AIDS, highlighting his role both personally and through the foundation that bears his name. The legendary artist’s speech coincided with the expansion of a pilot program in the U.K. that offers HIV testing to people who go to hospital emergency rooms. “Automated testing gets to people sooner, which means less HIV transmission, less illness, fewer deaths and, according to health economists’ estimates, £50 million saved for the NHS,” John said, referring to the British health service. Health authorities confirmed the expansion of this programme to an additional 46 emergency departments across England, with the aim of reaching the estimated 4,500 people who could be living with undiagnosed HIV in the country. 

Original source in Spanish