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Creation and Purpose
The AIDS Memorial Quilt was conceived in 1985 by activist Cleve Jones. It was created to memorialize those who had died of AIDS-related causes, providing a tangible way to remember loved ones and raise awareness about the impact of the epidemic.
First Display
The Quilt was first displayed on October 11, 1987, on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. It included 1,920 panels at that time, each dedicated to an individual lost to AIDS.
Growth and Expansion
Over the years, the Quilt has grown to include over 48,000 panels, making it the largest piece of community folk art in the world. Each panel is 3 feet by 6 feet, roughly the size of a human grave, symbolizing the lives lost.
Impact and Awareness
The Quilt has been displayed in various locations worldwide, helping to humanize the AIDS epidemic and reduce stigma. It has served as a powerful visual representation of the disease's toll and a call to action for better treatment, prevention, and understanding.
Current Status
Today, the Quilt is maintained by the National AIDS Memorial in San Francisco. It continues to grow, with new panels being added to honor those who have recently passed away from AIDS-related illnesses.