Mobilization Against AIDS

Organizational History

The Mobilization Against AIDS is a California-based national advocacy and lobbying organization that works to safeguard civil rights and to assure adequate treatment for all HIV-infected individuals. The Mobilization was formed in San Francisco in 1984 as a non-partisan activist organization. The organization was founded on the positive energy generated from the March for Lesbian and Gay Rights at the National Democratic Convention. It is one of the oldest AIDS activist groups in the world, having been founded just three years after AIDS was identified.

The Mobilization's first priority was the defeat of the early civil rights attacks on people with AIDS, and then on increasing the funding for research on AIDS. This included advocating for a focused response to the AIDS epidemic from the federal government, and expanded to concerns over access to treatment, drug trials, drug approval processes, and drug costs.

MOB was a central player in the massive campaigns that succeeded in defeating the LaRouche AIDS Quarantine Initiatives in 1986 and 1988, and the Dannemeyer AIDS Initiative in 1988. In 1990 federal legislation explicitly prohibited discrimination against people with AIDS. As a direct lobbying group, the Mobilization organizes staff and volunteers to meet with federal officials and legislators. This has led to the development of long-term relationships with congressional representatives, especially those on the House of Representatives Budget and Appropriations Committees. Between 1984 and 1990 federal AIDS spending went from $85 million to over $1.8 billion, partially as a result of MOB lobbying efforts. The MOB also assists interested citizens in writing and visiting key federal officials and legislators, including the creation of kits that include sample letters and other tips.

Another major project has been organizing the International Candlelight Memorial. Since 1984, the event has become the world's largest simultaneous observance honoring the memory of AIDS victims and demonstrating support for people living with AIDS (PWA's). Memorials have taken place in over 220 cities in 35 countries. Events are arranged locally with support from the Mobilization, including supplying sample posters, letters to dignitaries, and providing logistical tips.

They have also worked with other agencies for more effective lobbying efforts. The Mobilization has received the majority of its funding from the AIDS Walkathon and the AIDS Dance-a-thon with the remainder coming from individual donations.

From the guide to the Mobilization Against AIDS records, 1984-1995, (The UCSF Library and Center for Knowledge Management, Archives and Special Collections)