nity contexts. Many schools, businesses, detention facilities, churches, and other community organizations have not integrated discussion of HIV into their practices, a silence that can contribute to HIV stigma
Policy (Local, State, & Federal Laws)
Laws and policies at the local, state, and federal levels can contribute to HIV stigma.
- HIV stigma, incidence, and prevalence are associated with state policies related to discrimination and rights. Results from a National Alliance of State & Territorial AIDS Directors/National Coalition of STD Directors survey revealed higher levels of stigma in states without employee non-discrimination laws focused on sexual orientation and gender, in states without hate crimes laws, and in states not allowing for same-sex marriage or civil unions.
Working to end stigma and discrimination experienced by people with HIV/AIDS is a critical factor in stopping the epidemic.
Strategies to Reduce HIV/AIDS Stigma
- Help build youth people’s self-esteem by using youth development principles and proper leadership training
- Encourage youth to seek knowledge and tools to stay educated about HIV prevention, transmission, and care.
- Build peer support to protect against stigma.
- Promote the use of language regarding HIV that is appropriate, factual, and inoffensive.
- Teach those connected with youth about HIV transmission, care, and testing
- Integrate regular HIV testing into standard care practices.
- Collaborate between organizations to better serve adolescents.
- Encourage lawmakers to consider HIV stigma when deciding whether to support policies that could have an impact on youth living with HIV.
- Ensure youth living with HIV are aware of their rights related to privacy.