February 6, 2003

John Farina appointed Chair of AIDS Action’s Public Policy Committee

Washington, DC – John Farina, public policy director of the AIDS Taskforce of Greater Cleveland, has been appointed to chair the AIDS Action Public Policy Committee (PPC), AIDS Action announced today. AIDS Action is a national, public policy organization working for individuals living with HIV/AIDS and the organizations that serve them. The PPC advises AIDS Action, helping the organization shape fair and effective national policies to improve the lives of their thousands-strong constituency.

“John brings an impressive blend of leadership and policy development experience to the Public Policy Committee of AIDS Action,” stated Ronald Johnson, chair of AIDS Action’s Board of Directors. “In particular,” continued Johnson, “John brings the perspective and point of view of the Midwest—especially that of mid-sized and smaller cities which are being heavily impacted by the HIV/AIDS epidemic. I am pleased and thrilled to have him serve as AIDS Action’s PPC Chair.”

During his tenure at the AIDS Taskforce of Greater Cleveland, Mr. Farina has worked extensively on federal and state budget and policy issues. Over the years, Mr. Farina has established a significant and diverse record of advocacy on gay/lesbian/bisexual/transgender issues, health care policy, and ongoing support for the AIDS Drug Assistance Program. In addition, he has worked extensively with local governments to enact fair housing ordinances and domestic partner legislation.

In addition to his involvement in the work of AIDS Action, Mr. Farina has been active in other groups and organizations, including local and state Republican parties in Ohio, the Log Cabin Republicans, the Human Rights Campaign, the Lesbian/Gay Community Service Center of Greater Cleveland, the National Alliance for the Mentally Ill, Lakewood Hospital in Lakewood, OH, the Lakewood schools, Lakewood Charitable Assistance Corporation, and Cleveland Bridge Builders.

AIDS Action Foundation strives to end the HIV/AIDS epidemic by working for public policies that promote prevention against new infections, provide care for people already living with HIV/AIDS, and support the search for a cure. AIDS Action is the national voice of all people living with HIV, representing community based organizations across the country.