Lupus Awareness Month
Lupus Awareness Month is one of several observances promoted by the Lupus Foundation of America to increase visibility for lupus. Beginning in 2008, the LFA and its chapters have designated May as Lupus Awareness Month to incorporate other related events into the observance. These include:
LFA National Awards Gala - May 12, 2009
World Lupus Day - May 10, 2009
Mother's Day - May 10, 2009
National Women's Health Week - May 10-16, 2009
How You Can Help Observe Lupus Awareness Month
Distribute Information
Shop the LFA's online store and purchase brochures, bookmarks, purple wristbands, purple ribbon pins, and posters. Distribute these materials where you work, worship, shop, or have fun. Organize a short talk to educate others about lupus.
Send an Email to Elected Officials
Urge your elected officials to provide more funds for lupus research and education programs. Our Legislative Action Center can easily connect you.
Write a Letter to the Editor
Share your story about how lupus has affected you or a member of your family. The LFA Website Newsroom has fact sheets and talking points to assist you. Include the Lupus Awareness Campaign Presskit (PDF).
Get Involved
Contact the LFA chapter nearest you and participate in an upcoming education or fund-raising event. Volunteer to help with an upcoming event or program, or offer to help work in the office.
History of Lupus Awareness Month
The first lupus awareness observance occurred in 1977 when President Carter signed Public Law 95-72 which declared September 18-24, 1977 as National Lupus Awareness Week. The week long observance was moved to October in 1982. The first month-long observance occurred in 1986 when President Reagan signed Public Law 99-365, designating October 1986 as Lupus Awareness Month.