This week while I was doing some research in order to see what I would like to use as my add-on, I found some very interesting information about NATIONAL HIV TESTING day. National HIV testing day is June 27th of each year. In 2009, more African Americans showed up for public testing than any other year (HIV Test Org, 2009).
There were many African American female celebrities who showed up to have their test done publically as well. These celebrities include: Vanessa Williams, Angie Stone, Tatyana Ali, Tyra Banks, Beyonce Knowles and many more (HIV Test Org, 2009). When reading this information I was very proud to see that this event was supported by African Americans around the world and most importantly that African American women were supporting this event.
I feel an individual should participate in taking the test as a personal decision, but it is very important for those individuals who have a lot of influence over others to stand up and be an example. By seeing the list of well-known African American women who took part in the testing made me very proud to know, that African American women are finally taking a stand and getting educated about HIV/AIDS.
Did you know...
For black women living with HIV/AIDS, the most common methods of transmission were high-risk heterosexual contact and injection drug use (CDC, 2008). I believe this fact hold true because not enough education about the virus is being spread throughout the African American communities. I do not believe this is because the resources are not available, I think African American just try to get away or dodge the situation. The truth of the matter is, because we are not getting educated on HIV/AIDS, we are the leading group of people with HIV. Let's take a stand and make a difference!
I had no idea there was an actual day designated to get an HIV test. I think thats awesome though it just needs to be made more public, more awareness should be brought to it. It's amazing to see public figures showing up to this event because that is exactly the kind of thing that could bring awareness to this day. I think it is just a responsible descision to get tested for HIV even if you think you don't have it. It's not only important to your health but to your partners health if you have a partner. People should get over their fear of getting tested because early detection could make ones quality of life with HIV much better.
ReplyDeleteI like the fact that this test is promoted not only by foundations and hospitals but also by celebrities. Celebrities have a lot of influence in convincing the youth, fans, and people in general because to many they are peoples role models. So, if people see their role models promoting or advocating for something, their followers would most likely adhere to what they are saying and do what they say (of course only if it isn’t bad). I also agree that people should take this test because this disease is deadly and all it takes is an accident or a bad judgment call and boom..you got it. I’ve always believed in the phrase “it is better to be safe than sorry” because it is true.
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