On World AIDS Day on December 1st. Solidarity with HIV-positive people is expressed. The “It’s my turn!” campaign shows role models.
Clear words and actions are needed against discrimination against people with HIV – also and especially from HIV-negative people. With its campaign “It’s my turn!”, Deutsche Aidshilfe (DAH) is looking for such allies – and presenting “Allys” who are already campaigning against discrimination. Ally is an established term for people who use their privileged position to actively support disadvantaged groups.
“On the way to an enlightened and discrimination-free society, we need reflective people who set an example and initiate change. We can all be allies and contribute to a discrimination-free society. Towards a society that is ultimately good for everyone because it takes equality seriously,” says Winfried Holz from the board of German Aids Aid.
Highlight on World AIDS Day
With the call to work towards this goal throughout the year, the campaign reaches its climax on World AIDS Day. A total of eight Allys will then be online and set a good example in various areas of life: Tattoo artist Diego makes it clear that HIV is not a problem in a professional tattoo studio if normal hygiene standards are adhered to. Teacher Thomas not only addresses HIV in biology class, but also as a class teacher – so that his students can also become Allies. Andrew sets a good example against discrimination in dating – with the information that HIV can no longer be transmitted under treatment. And doctor Stefanie allays her colleagues’ fears through information and her own example – for example if they are unfoundedly worried when taking blood.
“It should not be the case that people with HIV still experience discrimination in the health sector today, and clear signals and a review of how they deal with HIV in practice are very important,” says Stefanie.
Discrimination is part of everyday life
The Study positive voices 2.0 has clearly shown that discrimination is still part of everyday life for people with HIV. 95 percent of respondents had experienced discrimination in the 12 months prior to the survey. 90 percent said they could live well with HIV given the medications available today. However, more than half said prejudice affected their quality of life. These include, for example, derogatory statements, moral condemnation and blame.
“People with HIV are still often perceived as a danger. In everyday life, HIV is often given a completely inappropriate dramatic meaning. Allyship means not allowing dramatization and devaluation, but rather putting your own prejudices to the test and setting an example for change,” says Heike Gronski, DAH speaker for life with HIV and head of the campaign.
Create safe places
The campaign calls on people to follow the example of their role models and to position themselves clearly. The “Safer Space Ribbon” can then be an expression of a reflective and active attitude, a further development of the well-known Red Ribbon for this campaign. As a sticker on the entrance door, it means: People with HIV can count on acceptance and safety here.
Heike Gronski’s appeal for World AIDS Day: “Take part, get informed and show how you can use your opportunities to make a difference in your environment. It’s time for an end to discrimination and stigmatization!”
Under https://www.ichbindran.de/medienpaket An extensive, freely usable media package is available. You can follow the campaign on social media and get involved using the hashtags #ichbindran and #HIVAlly.