HIV/AIDS is above all else shaped by the social determinants of health. Incidence — and inequitable access to vital treatment and support services — is worse among Aboriginal people, women, racialized communities, IV drug users and other poor and marginalized communities, and in poorer countries. But it has also been massive mobilization out of the communities most affected that has led to major advances — from the Trillium drug plan here in Ontario that provides access for those facing catastrophic illnesses to a community-driven research and treatment agenda that has transformed HIV/AIDS into a chronic manageable condition for many (see a brief history by a leading activist) At the same time, HIV/AIDS remains intensely political — illustrated by the current federal government’s refusal to accept the extensive scientific evidence of the effectiveness of harm reduction and failure to fund proven prevention and treatment services. Community groups across the country mark this day by reinforcing their commitment to continuing mobilization (see a video of one such group and critical analysis).