LGBTQIA+ Pride Collection

HIV/AIDS Crisis

The first cases of HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) that would develop in later stages into AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) were reported in the United States in June of 1981, marking the beginning of a  global epidemic. While HIV affects individuals from all walks of life, the epidemic continues to disproportionately impact members of the LGBTQIA+ community. In addition to decades of ideological opposition to basic prevention strategies, insufficient funding has lead to a lack of resources needed to aggressively fight back against the HIV/AIDS crisis and find a cure. Societal barriers, stigma and discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity continue to stigmatize the crisis. Lack of federal non-discrimination protections for LGBTQIA+ individuals have lead to consequences such as job loss, homelessness and lack of health insurance, further enabling the spread of HIV by discouraging individuals to seek out testing/treatment for fear of harassment. In spite of these constant setbacks, there here have been many medical advances since the '80s in HIV prevention, treatment and care.