An interfaith conference looking at the current challenges and opportunities in developing an effective response to HIV and AIDS will take place two days prior to the AIDS 2012 International Aids Conference being held from July 22-27 in Washington D.C.

The interfaith conference set to be held at Howard University from July 20-21 is entitled "Taking Action for Health, Dignity, and Justice." It will explore both advocacy and on the ground responses during three plenary sessions and workshops.

Three plenary sessions will explore health, dignity and justice-related issues as they pertain to HIV and AIDS programs.

The Ecumenical Advocacy Alliance is the lead international sponsor of the pre-conference, working in partnership with The Balm in Gelead as the lead national sponsor. Co-sponsors include INERELA , Religions for Peace, Asian Interfaith Network on AIDS, Catholic Medical Mission Board and the American Jewish World Service.

Additional faith-related events and activities include a July 19 Interfaith Networking Reception at 6 pm at Howard University, a July 20, 6PM introduction to the Speak Out Coalition – an faith-based anti-sexual violence group, and an interfaith prayer service at the National Cathedral at 7:00 pm Saturday, July 21 with free tickets available. An interfaith prayer room will also be available from July 22-27 that is open to all AIDS 2012 participants, including worship and one-on-one pastoral care if requested.

Click here (http://www.iacfaith.net/) for additional pre-conference information, including registration.

The confirmed speakers for the pre-conference's plenary sessions include:

Rev. Dr Nyambura Njoroge, World Council of Churches, Kenya
Imam Johari Abdul-Malik, Dar Al-Hijrah Islamic Centre, USA
Dr Rosalee Velloso Ewell, World Evangelical Alliance, Brazil
Ms Ruth Messinger, President, American Jewish World Service
Canon Gideon Byamugisha, Christian Aid Goodwill Ambassador, Uganda
Ms Faghmeda Miller, Positive Muslims, South Africa
Bishop Yvette Flunder, United Church of Christ City of Refuge, USA
Ms Moono Nyambe, Global Network of People Living with HIV, Zambia
Swami Advaidananda, International Network of Religious Leaders Living with or Personally Affected by HIV and AIDS (INERELA ), Réunion Island
Dr Ronald Lalthanmawia, Christian Medical Association of India
Rev. MacDonald Sembereka, INERELA , Malawi