10 Black HIV/AIDS Advocates Who Are Making a Difference
From TheBody.com
April 2, 2012
5/11
Angela L. Green, Executive Director, Iris Center, San Francisco
During her 2009 speech at the National Equality March in Washington, D.C., AIDS activist Angela Green said, "You can pass out all the condoms and literature in the world, but unless a person feels whole, unless we love and care for ourselves, unless we see ourselves as viable human beings, the numbers [of HIV cases] will keep rising."
This statement is fitting, especially since the crux of Angela's work -- be it at her organization in San Francisco or traveling across the country -- is grounded in the notion of self-love and self-care, especially in terms of women.
Iris House provides a range of integrated low-cost or free services to local women that include substance abuse counseling, support groups for women living with HIV/AIDS, parenting skills and LGBT-related services. Angela started off as the center's director of HIV Prevention & Treatment Services, and in 2007 was promoted to executive director. Under her direction, Iris Center has had a huge impact, serving hundreds of people each year. In 2011, Iris Center implemented Project KIDS (Keeping Independent Decisions Supreme), which helps African-American women 13 to 18 years of age make smart choices surrounding sex, HIV and reproductive health. This year the center is looking to add HIVspecific services in mental health for their clients.
Comment by: Theresa
(Cincinnati)
Tue., Aug. 7, 2012 at 1:11 pm EDT
I have ask myself for 15 years now, where are all the white hiv/aids advocates, mother's daughter's and grandmother's just like me living with hiv. yet to meet or run into at one of many of my 15 years of dr visits a white women just like me?
Comment by: TOM ONSONGO
(NAIROBI KENYA)
Wed., Jul. 4, 2012 at 3:01 am EDT
Am a man living with HIV for over 20 years that is when I knew my status. I suffered serious self stigma untill I went through treatment literacy. This changed my life for ever. Today I am a programme director of an NGO fighting HIV in kenya. Correct and accurate informatio on HIV/AIDS is key in fightin this disease.
Comment by: Shanasha Whitson
(Minneapolis, Minnesota)
Wed., Apr. 18, 2012 at 3:24 pm EDT
There are 5, 344.861 people in MN, 5.2 % are black but we make up 33% of people infected in Minnesota. As a medical case manager at The Minneapolis Urban League I offer case management for people of color who are positive. We ofer an array of service that keep people in care and get people connected to services. We have got to take back our power and ensure our communities health and wellness.
Comment by: Darriane Martin
(Dallas, TX)
Tue., Apr. 17, 2012 at 4:52 pm EDT
Michelle, I am so proud of you and happy that you are my colleague in this fight. Keep you the great work!!!
Comment by: Teresa Sullivan
(Philadelphia)
Mon., Apr. 9, 2012 at 9:34 am EDT
Congrats Brook Kelly, you deserve to be honored and the PWN is grateful to have you as a ally for women living with HIV/AIDS. Your ROCK!
You are a beacon of hope during a time when our own governments would turn this health crisis into a crime and the stricken individuals into criminals.
I wish great success and happiness.
Comment by: Robin Brennan, DrPH
(Philadelphia, Pa)
Tue., Apr. 3, 2012 at 4:02 pm EDT
Michael Everett is an empowering leader and human rights advocate who is truly making a difference. His dedication and compassion are inspiring.
Comment by: Gigi Green
(Nemacolin PA)
Tue., Apr. 3, 2012 at 12:37 pm EDT
Angela Green is my sister. She is a very special person who makes a difference in many lives. I am so glad that she is being recognized for the wonderful woman that she is.
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