The Stigma of HIV/AIDS

HIV affects all sorts of people regardless of age, gender, race, sexual orientation, social status, profession, or background. People with HIV include our friends, families, neighbors, colleagues, leaders, celebrities, ourselves — you name it — everybody.

Unfortunately, because of ignorance, misinformation, prejudice, and especially fear, people with HIV must deal not only with the challenge of living with the virus but also with negative attitudes — just for being HIV-positive.

Stigma around HIV leads to an unsafe environment for all of us.

If all of us in all communities were more informed and more accepting of people with HIV, we would have a greater impact on reducing the spread of the virus. People would be encouraged to test for HIV and disclose their status without fear of rejection or discrimination. We all need to be willing to deal with HIV honestly and courageously, without blaming, degrading, or isolating people with HIV.

Let's be there for each other!

 

What We Offer | Confidential HIV Testing | Case Management & Counseling | Education & Outreach | Support Groups | Youth Corner | Doctors & Clinics | Helpful Telephone Numbers | Stigma of HIV/AIDS | Frequently Asked Questions