ANAC champions Zero HIV Stigma Day to be held on July 21 as the first annual global awareness day specifically to challenge the impact of HIV related stigma, which persists despite biomedical advancements in HIV prevention and care.
It is a day to draw attention to and unite people, communities and countries to help raise awareness about HIV stigma and how to end it. This day is observed on the birthday of Prudence Mabele, the first Black South African woman to publicly share her HIV status. This year’s theme, “Human First”, emphasizes the human first dimension of people living with and affected by HIV. The theme also recognizes the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. Discrimination against any person with or affected by HIV is a human right violation, and tying these two events together is powerful.
HIV stigma refers to irrational or negative attitudes, behaviors and judgments towards people living with or at risk of HIV. Unfortunately, HIV stigma still exists in healthcare settings and communities. We have a role in stopping it.