Tonight Oprah Winfrey will interview Magic Johnson on Next Chapter and discuss the NBA Legend’s HIV diagnosis among other life events. Johnson’s announcement of his infection was made public in a press conference that I recall watching as a high school senior. In the 22 years since that announcement, much has changed as it relates to the stigma attached to HIV/AIDS. While researchers may be getting closer to a cure, the pandemic is still adversely impacting women and people of color in the United States. In distant lands the disease is still leaving orphaned children who must care for themselves and siblings.
In March during a Red Pump Project awareness event (http://www.theredpumpproject.org/), I listened as a young Atlanta woman in her early 20s talked about contracting the disease and how her life has changed since that time. Although Johnson and the woman can share their stories with the masses, so many people are still undiagnosed and living with complications in silence. I often sense that there is now a false sense of security as it relates to the disease, as some still dismiss the risk of unprotected sex with known and new partners.
It is my prayer that on this World AIDS Day, we not only remember those who have transitioned but also pray for those living with HIV/AIDS. I will speak the names of many close to me who have succumbed due to AIDS related complications, and encourage continued education and testing. Just because HIV/AIDS isn’t prominently placed on the media’s agenda does not mean AIDS has disappeared. I am reminded that what has disappeared are some of the people we loved whose lives were cut short by a disease that did not discriminate based on age, gender, sexual orientation, or religious affiliation.
As always, continue to look, live and learn more about HIV/AIDS. #ashe #gettested
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