[Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1994, Book II)]
[November 11, 1994]
[Page 2069]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]



Statement on the Death of Pedro Zamora
November 11, 1994

    Hillary and I are deeply saddened by the news of the death of Pedro 
Zamora.
    In his short life, Pedro educated and enlightened our Nation. He 
taught all of us that AIDS is a disease with a human face and one that 
affects every American, indeed every citizen, of the world. And he 
taught people living with AIDS how to fight for their rights and live 
with dignity.
    Pedro was particularly instrumental in reaching out to his own 
generation, where AIDS is striking hard. Through his work with MTV, he 
taught young people that ``The Real World'' includes AIDS and that each 
of us has the responsibility to protect ourselves and our loved ones.
    Today, one in four new HIV infections is among people under the age 
of 20. For Pedro, and for all Americans infected and affected by HIV, we 
must intensify our efforts to reduce the rate of HIV infection, provide 
treatment to those living with AIDS, and ultimately find a cure for 
AIDS.
    Our hearts are with Pedro's family in this difficult time. In the 
months ahead, let us rededicate ourselves to continuing Pedro's brave 
fight.