Oct. 15 is National Latinx AIDS Awareness Day (NLAAD), which was first observed in 2003 by the Hispanic Federation and the Latino Commission on AIDS (LCOA). NLAAD is an opportunity to help address the disproportionate impact of HIV on Hispanic/Latinx communities, promote HIV testing and stop HIV stigma. This observance is also a community mobilization effort that helps promote the effective ways to prevent, treat and stop the transmission of HIV among Hispanic/Latinx people.

Hispanic Heritage Month is also celebrated from Sept. 15 - Oct. 15 each year to honor and recognize the significant recognitions Hispanic/Latino Americans have made in the United States.

Hispanic/Latinx people are disproportionately affected by HIV. Social and structural issues such as racism, HIV stigma, homophobia, poverty and limited access to high-quality healthcare influence health outcomes and continue to drive inequities. See the latest data on HIV from the CDC.

Johanna Castillo, PharmD, AAHIVP, CSP

(she/her/ella)

Regional Account Manager, Walgreens Specialty

Years as an ANAC member: 6

Houston Gulf Coast Chapter member

What does National Latinx AIDS Awareness Day mean to you?

This day is to bring social awareness and shine a light on the disproportionate impact HIV has on Hispanic/Latinx communities. Raising this awareness can promote HIV testing and prevention as a primary goal to stop HIV stigma. 

Why did you join the fight to end HIV/AIDS?

I joined the fight to end HIV over 13 years ago as a pharmacist, caring daily for my patients. Personally, someone close to me chose to take their life when they got their HIV diagnosis. I vowed to myself to educate as many people as possible, so they are informed and do not choose to end their life due to HIV.

What’s your favorite aspect of ANAC membership?

My favorite aspect is the camaraderie you develop. We are all different, but together pursuing the common goal of ending the HIV epidemic.