A Tear in the Fabric of Humanity

"A tear in the fabric of humanity," I heard this expression the other day in the context of the HIV epidemic. The scientist referencing the quote (I am not certain to whom to originally ascribe the origins of the phrase) was proposing that HIV was the result of a convergence of a number of social, economic, medical and geographic issues. He was saying that the "tear" in the fabric that blankets all of humanity was a function of the multiplicity of these issues contributing to the enormous impact (scientists estimate that there will be 60-million world-wide cases of HIV by the end of the decade) that is HIV and AIDS. In essence, he was saying that HIV and AIDS have become a dividing element in our collective humanity.

There has been another devastating convergence of issues that has led to a "tear in the fabric of humanity." This tear has been around economic parity. The enormous distance that has grown in the world between socioeconomic segments of societies has been prominent in the media over the past 6-weeks. From the political protests in Northern Africa to the Occupy movements in major cities around the globe, people are taking to the streets to voice their frustrations.

We too are taking to the streets. Our "Bridging the Divide" event in Peru is designed to draw attention to the needs of under-served and marginalized communities. We are also seek to generate and encourage greater active participation in sourcing solutions. We are running 100 kilometers to bring a singular message that is "we can all build bridges" to connect resources with needs.

Peru is in a unique position. The economy of Peru is growing at record rates. There are more people with more resources than ever before. There is a great opportunity to build a network of "bridges" that will support the delivery of services and supports to the segment of the population that has been "torn" from the fabric of society. There is a great opportunity to level the playing field and assure that all Peruvians have access to their basic life needs.

We are running 100 kilometers in December to make a difference. We are asking others to come along with us in the movement to Bridge the Divide.