"I believe Aids is the most important issue we face, because how we treat the poor is a reflection of who we are as a people"

In this quote, Alicia Keys expresses her belief that the issue of AIDS is the most essential one that we as a society are currently dealing with. She thinks this since the way we treat those who are less lucky, specifically those who are impacted by AIDS, shows our values and morals as an individuals. Keys is highlighting the value of empathy and empathy towards those who are having a hard time, and how it ultimately specifies us as individuals and as a society. By acknowledging the significance of this problem, Keys is advising us to act and deal with the problem with generosity and mankind.