BIRMINGHAM AIDS & HIV MEMORIAL IS REVEALED OUTSIDE THE ARCADIAN

We’re thrilled to see the unveiling of Red Ribbons – a stunning memorial to those who affected by AIDS and HIV – near The Arcadian, Birmingham.

Located in the new Hippodrome Square on Hurst Street, Red Ribbons (Birmingham AIDS & HIV memorial – BAHM) was unveiled to coincide with World AIDS Day. 

The Arcadian is proud to have helped bring the BAHM to the city after donating towards the cost of its fabrication. 

Almost two years in the making, the concept of the memorial came from local businessman Garry Jones after being inspired into action, with others, after watching the Channel 4 drama It’s a Sin. 

He and his collaborators set out to establish a dedicatory space in Birmingham to remember those lost to HIV and AIDS. 

Garry said: “It’s seems very surreal. I was watching It’s a Sin on TV, back in January 2021, and came up with a design concept and posted on Facebook. ‘Isn’t it time we had Memorial here in Birmingham?’ And here we are: it’s a dream come true. 

“The memorial has three significant meanings: to remember those we have lost, to celebrate those who are able to live with HIV today, and to educate, take away the stigma, prejudice and fear. I can’t wait for the world to see it!” 

Jo Kinsella, centre manager at The Arcadian, added: “It’s a beautiful memorial, right on our doorstep, and I’m proud we’ve been able to play a small role in ensuring that it has a home in Southside and the Gay Quarter.” 

The unveiling event in the new Hippodrome Square included an hour of entertainment, with performances by Chinatown Lions, SOTE School of Theatre Excellence, Rainbow Voices and Hawthorn Primary School Choir. A candle-lit remembrance procession will then arrive in the square with a samba band.  

Garry Jones and his co-founders Phil Oldershaw and Andrew Bentley-King gave speeches, as will Luke Perry, the artist who fabricated Red Ribbons, and Dr Steve Taylor of Saving Lives (BAHM’s charity partner), the Lead HIV consultant at Birmingham’s Heartlands Hospital and honorary senior lecturer at the University of Birmingham. 

Image credit - Express and Star