Today is the 16th Annual World Aids Day. Individuals and organizations around the world celebrate and discuss the progress that has been made against the AIDS Pandemic and use the day to raise awareness about the disease globally.The pandemic is affecting entire communities and whole nations. Worldwide, over 42 million people have HIV or AIDS.In March of 1995, legendary rapper and mogul Eazy-E succumbed to the disease. Before passing away, the founder of N.W.A., Ruthless Records and arguably “gangsta rap” as it is known today, Eazy-E released his final statement, warning people about the deadly disease.”Yeah, I was a brother on the streets of Compton doing a lot of things most people look down on — but it did pay off,” Eazy E said. “Then we started rapping about real stuff that shook up the LAPD and the FBI. But we got our message across big time, and everyone in America started paying attention to the boys in the ‘hood.”Eazy said that the rewards for being a famous rapper included cars, gorgeous women and good living. Eazy did not apologize for the lifestyle that ultimately consumed him, but warned his fans they needed to learn more about the disease.”I’m not saying this because I’m looking for a soft cushion wherever I’m heading, I just feel that I’ve got thousands and thousands of young fans that have to learn about what’s real when it comes to AIDS,” Eazy continued. “Like the others before me, I would like to turn my own problem into something good that will reach out to all my homeboys and their kin. Because I want to save their a#### before it’s too late.”In the final statement, Eazy-E warned that the disease was real and did not discriminate.”I’m not looking to blame anyone except myself. I have learned in the last week that this thing is real…It affects everyone…Now I’m in the biggest fight of my life, and it ain’t easy. But I want to say much love to those who have been down to me. And thanks for your support.”Eazy-E passed away on March 26, 1995 from AIDS. He left behind a wife and seven children by six different mothers.
