Caribbean American HIV/AIDS Awareness Day is held June 8 each year to provide Caribbean Americans with resources, HIV/AIDS health education, evaluation and opportunities for involvement. We talked to Orlando Harris, PhD, RN, FNP, MPH about what this day and being an ANAC member mean to him.

Years as an ANAC member: 16

As a Jamaican American, Caribbean American HIV/AIDS Awareness Day means a lot to me. Some sexual and gender minority Afro-Caribbean people experience high rates of stigma and discrimination in their home country, which can follow them here to the United States. So, creating safe clinical spaces that are culturally inclusive where sexual and gender minority people can be and become their best selves must be an essential component of any successful HIV prevention and treatment program. 

I joined the fight to end HIV/AIDS because I was tired of seeing young Black gay men become infected. As a young clinician back in 2006, I was in the clinic each day diagnosing these young men with HIV, many of whom looked like my little brothers or cousins. While clinical practice was rewarding, I realized I had to find out why they were more vulnerable to HIV than other racial groups. This curiosity led to where I am now in my career – a health disparities researcher who is focused on understanding social and cultural determinants of health. 

For me, ANAC is a place for all healthcare professionals who are interested in ending HIV/AIDS in all communities. This is important because we need more people to roll up their sleeves and get in the fight to save lives.  

I became a member of ANAC when I was in my junior year of college/nursing school. This organization and its members have been family since then. I would encourage anyone interested in HIV practice or research to find a mentor or community of people that will support you on your journey. Do not be afraid to put yourself out there and network. 

Interested in getting involved with ANAC? Visit our website to learn more!