Stigma, when associated with HIV, another medical condition, mental illness or disability, prevents a person from seeking evaluation and treatment, disclosing the diagnosis to those most likely to provide support, and following treatment guidelines. Health related stigma destroys human dignity.
Click HERE to register for “RAHMA on the Runway” women’s Fashion Show. The event will include vendors and HIV education.
The 16th Annual International Conference on Stigma will be held from November 18 to November 20th, 2025. Our theme is Beyond the Labels: Living and Thriving. Registration is OPEN.
To volunteer go HERE. Volunteers of at least 2 hours get free registration (Does not include travel).
Visit the resource page for our Black Women and HIV Project. CLICK HERE
We’ve come a long way from 1987, when AZT (azidothymidine), the first HIV treatment, was approved for the public. It was this pivotal moment that gave millions of people hope for the fight against the virus. Even though it was a great first step, treatment was still very limited, and prevention wasn’t possible yet.
AZT does not prevent or cure AIDS, but helps slow the progression of HIV, which causes AIDS.
Today, through extensive research, progress has brought about countless methods that not only treat HIV, but can entirely prevent it. Two of the most effective tools are PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis) and PEP (Post-Exposure Prophylaxis). PrEP is taken before any possible exposure, either daily or by injection. It builds a strong defense in the body, which can help fight the virus. When correctly used, it can reduce the risk of HIV from sex by about 99%. It acts as a shield before the virus has any chance to enter.
