Southern HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (SHAAD) is observed annually on August 20 in the Southern United States. Launched by the Southern AIDS Coalition, the day aims to improve access to HIV prevention, care, and treatment in communities disproportionately affected by the disease. The Southern region accounts for more than half of new HIV cases in the U.S., despite housing only 38% of the population, and faces significant challenges such as socioeconomic factors, cultural stigma, and limited healthcare access. The event seeks to combat HIV stigma and encourage individuals to learn their HIV status and seek treatment without fear of judgment. Participants can engage in the campaign by promoting awareness on social media using hashtags like #SHAAD and #StopHIVTogether.