Red Ribbon

item details

NameRed Ribbon

ProductionNew Zealand AIDS Foundation; producer; 2000s; New Zealand

Classificationlapel pins

Materialssynthetic fibre, metal

DimensionsOverall: 41mm (width), 88mm (height), 9mm (depth)

Registration NumberGH026154

Credit lineAnonymous gift, 2022

Overview

Red Ribbons have been worn since 1991 and are often given out on World AIDS Day (1 December) in exchange for donations. The Red Ribbon is the global symbol for solidarity with HIV-positive people and those living with AIDS (Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome).

The New York based group Visual AIDS originally designed the Red Ribbon as a meaningful symbol of the fight against AIDS, and to show support and compassion for those suffering with it. The colour red symbolises both the blood through which HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) is transmitted, and love. The inverted ‘V’ shape was designed without copyright to encourage widespread uptake.

AIDS was first documented in 1981. When it hit New Zealand in the early 1980s, very little was known about the virus which caused AIDS, other than it was a killer. Some people viewed AIDS as a punishment for immoral behaviour, and those who carried it, or were seen to be potential carriers – homosexuals, drug users and prostitutes – were demonised. The widespread wearing of red ribbons helped build solidarity and support.