On this day, we encourage all Native communities to plan events to promote HIV testing and continue education of HIV/AIDS. It is also a day to honor those who are living with or affected by HIV, as well as to honor those who have passed as a result of AIDS-related complications.

To celebrate, we talked to Theodore Rae Fletcher about why this day is important to him and his work.

Years as an ANAC member: 2

DEI committee member

National Native HIV/AIDS Awareness Day is a vital opportunity to increase awareness, reduce stigma and encourage Native people to take control of their health by getting tested and accessing care. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Native people continue to be disproportionately affected by HIV/AIDS, and though they accounted for 0.3% of the U.S. population, they account for 0.5% of new HIV diagnoses. 

As a citizen of the Cherokee Nation, this day is a reminder of the ongoing challenges facing Native communities, including the fight against HIV/AIDS. The factors contributing to this disparity include poverty, lack of access to healthcare and historical and generational trauma. By raising awareness and promoting prevention and treatment, I hope we can reduce the number of new infections in this population and improve health outcomes for Native persons currently living with HIV/AIDS.

One of my first experiences in this profession was on an acute hospital floor with persons diagnosed with HIV/AIDS, and though their stories were unique, they were woven together with similarities. As most are astutely aware, HIV/AIDS has historically affected Native and Indigenous Peoples, marginalized communities, including people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals and those living in poverty. Persons who are experiencing multiple challenging social determinants of health are exposed to the multiple vulnerabilities helping HIV/AIDS thrive. There must be protection along multiple dimensions. The fight to end HIV/AIDS is a fight for human rights. Joining the fight to end HIV/AIDS is joining the fight for continued attention to human rights and freedom from discrimination, and we can accomplish this through outreach, education and continuing research. 

I would pass on two important concepts that will help you practice nursing in HIV/AIDS care. One: empowerment and two: cultural humility. People living with HIV are impacted by stigma and discrimination, making it difficult for them to access care and support. As a nurse, you can empower your patients by providing them with accurate information, advocating for their needs and helping them navigate health care. As HIV affects people from all walks of life, it is important to recognize and respect the diversity of your patients' experiences and backgrounds. Practice cultural humility by listening to your patients, acknowledging your own biases and working to provide.