Words by Smiley Team
HIV affects millions of people worldwide. According to hiv.gov, over 1.2 million people were diagnosed with the disease in the United States with more unreported.
Beyond that, the disease disproportionately affects gay and bisexual men, as they make up more than half the reported cases according to the CDC.
To address the disproportionate impact on the gay community – and to address HIV as a whole – the Human Rights Campaign has launched a new initiative as part of its national in-home HIV testing program, where they’ve pledged to administer a minimum of 5,000 free in-home HIV testing kits over one year.
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“HRC is committed to working closely with our partners to ensure that our communities are equipped with effective tools and resources, like these in-home test kits, to stop the spread of HIV,” Joni Madison, HRC Interim President, said in a statement.
“We know that for decades, bias, discrimination and stigma have fueled and continue to fuel HIV health care inequity. By providing greater access to in-home testing, we’re combating the stigma that so many transgender women of color and Black and Latinx gay and bisexual men face when visiting a health care provider.”
Along with the HIV in-home test kits, HRC Foundation’s community campaign, launched in 2021, targets regions across the country that are the most affected by HIV and AIDS. The goal is to disseminate the stigma of the diseases and provide health resources to those that need them, primarily in Black and Latinx communities.
Supported by Gilead Sciences, the home service fit under the My Body, My Health campaign, which helps people become more informed about their personal health and how to maintain it.In addition to distributing testing kits, the program provides referrals to PrEP providers and links HIV-positive individuals to care via navigation services.
“These HIV test kits empower people to learn their status conveniently in the privacy of their own home,” Associate Director of HRC’s HIV & Health Equity program, Vanessa Castro, said in a statement. “Alongside our partners, HRC is on the frontlines, helping to stop the spread of HIV by meeting people where they are.
"We look forward to continuing this grassroots effort, challenging harmful HIV bias and discrimination in our health system that targets marginalized communities.”
DONATE: The Human Rights Campaign accepts donations if you want to support their cause.
SUPPORT: Breaking the stigma of diseases is one of the most important things you can do. Many people don’t seek help due to fear or embarrassment. Educate yourself and become a vehicle for change.
