"Let the Record Show" for saving lives

In Douglas Crimp's AIDS: Cultural Analysis/ Cultural Activism, he states, "Let the record show... The Pentagon spends in one day more than the government spent in the last five years for AIDS research and education" (Kocur, and Leung 145). That statement alone sent my mind into a state of shock. How can the government become so blind of AIDS and its research. "Let the record show" window display presented to many people in society who, like myself, do not really know anything about AIDS or the lack of the government's contribution to research for a cure. Statements of astonishing statistics flash across an electronic display, while people are walking pass the museum. These statements inform people of the issue of AIDS.

Mobilizing art is a great informative way of spreading news and thoughts on the topic. Crimp states in his article that "Such information and mobilization can (contra Rosenblum) save lives..." (Kocur, and Leung 147). I believe this statement to be true. Art can save lives. Informing the non- art world audience of AIDS, protection against AIDS, etc. is the first step to finding a treatment to stop or prevent AIDS. This particular article opened my eyes to not only just the topic of AIDS, but other important issues in society that the government likes to "brush under the rug" and act as if nothing is happening. They need to take a stand and provide the funding for research for other diseases as well.

Kocur, Zoya, and Simon Leung. Theory in Contemporary Art since 1985. Malden, MA:

Blackwell Publishing, 2005. 145. Print.

Kocur, Zoya, and Simon Leung. Theory in Contemporary Art since 1985. Malden, MA:

Blackwell Publishing, 2005. 147. Print.