A photo exhibition named 'The People Tree', which opened here last evening, is dedicated to communities such as female sex workers, the gay people, transgender, vulnerable and orphan children living with AIDS.

The exhibition highlights the pain and devastation these individuals experience because of the acute stigma and discrimination they face. It also depicts the role they play to fight HIV/AIDS.

Organized by a voluntary organization in collaboration with Karnataka health promotion trust, the exhibition is showcased at the American Culture Centre.

"We thought we would do this to recognize the contribution of the communities we work with and also recognizing the work of our field staff who are committed to serve these communities. The communities we work with in our HIV prevention and care program are very marginalized and stigmatized communities in our societies," said Vandana Gurnani, a project director.

Some photographs also capture the contribution of workers, peers and peer education, who introduce the villagers to the activities such as HIV care and protection.

The sale proceeds will go to project fund that will be utilized to strengthen certain communities, and support orphaned children with shelter, education and nutrition.

The exhibition will be on display till December 30.

Source-ANI
PRI