Charlotte Fights Stigma This HIV/AIDS Awareness Month
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — This month marks HIV/AIDS Awareness Month, and in a heartwarming show of solidarity, local officials are joining forces with the community to tackle the stigma that still surrounds this virus. It’s a conversation that many shy away from, but it’s one that’s crucial for the health and well-being of our community.
Education Is Key
Many people have a fearful reaction when they hear the term “HIV”. Darlena Blackwell, the Director of Client Relations at an organization dedicated to supporting those affected by HIV/AIDS, puts it simply: “Many times, they disclose, and they say ‘HIV’, it’s like the horror movie that a lot of people don’t want to watch.” She believes this fear stems from a lack of education.
Blackwell’s organization provides essential resources such as testing, counseling, and assistance with insurance for the people of Charlotte. And despite incredible advancements in medicine, like PrEP (a medication that significantly reduces the risk of contracting the virus), the biggest roadblock remains that lack of understanding.
A New Perspective on HIV
In previous years, receiving an HIV diagnosis felt like a death sentence. “They were basically prepared to die,” Blackwell recalls. But as we’ve learned more about the virus, it’s become clear that people are living longer, healthier lives with HIV. “If you want to live to be 100, you absolutely can,” she smiles, showcasing the newfound hope many can have.
Despite this progress, many folks still hesitate to seek treatment. That’s where local health officials are stepping in to improve access to care—especially for communities that are unfairly affected by the virus.
Community-Based Efforts
Dr. Raynard Washington, the Mecklenburg County Public Health Director, is leading the charge in making resources available to everyone, particularly in areas experiencing higher rates of infection. “We have a faith-based coalition that’s actively engaging in the black church. We have a number of community-based partners who are helping us every single day get testing into the community,” Dr. Washington shared.
Statistics from the county reveal a startling fact: Black patients accounted for 65% of new HIV diagnoses in 2022, even though they only represent 31% of the population. This points toward a pressing need for more education and outreach efforts.
A Call for Unity
“It is more likely that those individuals who are in those communities would likely be exposed once it’s in that social network of people,” Dr. Washington explained. The reality is that it’s not about ethnicity, sexuality, or other differences; the focus should be on the community coming together to support and uplift one another.
Both Blackwell and Dr. Washington agree that breaking the stigma associated with HIV is vital to ensuring that those living with the virus receive the care they need—care that can stop the spread of HIV in its tracks. “Once you reach that level of being undetectable, you are no longer transmitting the virus,” Blackwell emphasized, highlighting the importance of regular treatment.
Putting a Face to the Diagnosis
It’s crucial for everyone to remember that behind every diagnosis, there’s a person with hopes and dreams. “The diagnosis isn’t the person,” Blackwell reiterated. She urged the community to come together, support each other, and speak openly about HIV to foster understanding and compassion.
As Charlotte rallies together this HIV/AIDS Awareness Month, let’s focus on education, eliminate stigma, and remind ourselves that we’re all in this together. It’s time to change the narrative and help our friends, family, and neighbors seek the treatment they deserve.
