More Updated: Jul 13, 2021
On June 5, 1981, 40 years ago, the first cases of AIDS (acquired immune deficiency syndrome) in the U.S. were reported in five young men from Los Angeles. Today, there are still millions around the world who live with HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) and more who have died due to AIDS-related illnesses. Fortunately, thanks to major advancements in the medical field, many can successfully live with the virus, yet there is an apparent stigma surrounding HIV that must be eliminated.
President Joe Biden released a statement last week to recognize the HIV/AIDS epidemic and stated that he has requested Congress to dedicate $670 million in the fight against HIV/AIDS. With the funding, he hopes to “aggressively reduce new HIV cases by increasing access to treatment, expanding the use of preexposure prophylaxis (PrEP), and ensuring equitable access to services free from stigma and discrimination.” According to Dr. Anthony Fauci in Axios, he believes it is possible to end the epidemic by 2030 with the right treatments.
Nevertheless, there is something that must also be addressed in order to effectively end the epidemic: HIV stigma and discrimination. A recent study from the Rutgers School of Public Health highlights how the impact of stigma regarding HIV/AIDS is a significant barrier to prevention and care.
Discrimination against those living with HIV, particularly from Black or Brown communities and the LGBTQI+ community, still unfortunately exists which is why education is so important for both safety and awareness — misinformation only breeds skepticism and fear. Common misconceptions are that only gay individuals are able to get HIV and that HIV is easily transmitted through touch or saliva. Long-standing laws which criminalize HIV only serve to increase the stigma. Georgia is one of many states that still incarcerates people living with HIV/AIDS if they bite, spit, or throw bodily fluids on another person. This needs to change.
While we remember those who have passed on, we need to prioritize those who are still here. The COVID-19 pandemic has hit us very hard, but we cannot forget about the other infections and illnesses that impact the American population. HIV/AIDS is one of many infections that still negatively impacts the health outcomes for people living with HIV/AIDS.
If you would like to learn more, we suggest that you watch the VICE documentary “The Neglected Pandemic: 40 Years of HIV & AIDS” where SisterLove has been featured and check out the resources on the SisterLove website. To watch the documentary click here.
If you are struggling with a recent HIV+/AIDS or STI infection and are interested in confidential counseling and support services, please call us at [insert phone number].
To get tested for HIV and other STIs click here. SisterLove is now providing free and confidential HIV Self-testing kits for you to use in the privacy of your own home. Certified testers will guide you remotely through the process step by step. You can call [insert phone number] to schedule your self-test appointment.
To support SisterLove as we work to eradicate the HIV/AIDS stigma click here.
INNOVATING JUSTICE IN THE HIV RESPONSE: SHIFTING POWER AND SHARING STRENGTH TO END THE EPIDEMIC SISTERLOVE, INC. TO BE FEATURED IN VICE TV HIV DOCUMENTARY, 06/02 9PM National HIV Testing Day: Letter From Our Community Outreach Team
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