Source POZ Magazine
April 15, 2024 By HIV.gov
The “For Us, By Us: Addressing Unique Needs of Black Women in the HIV Response” blog highlights a groundbreaking initiative by the Office of Infectious Disease and HIV/AIDS Policy (OIDP) at HHS.
Key highlights:
Led in part by Dr. Marissa Robinson, this community-driven initiative centers the voices of Black women—both cisgender and transgender—in the national HIV response.
Emphasizes meaningful engagement and use of lived experiences as data to shape programs and policies.
In March 2024, Dr. Robinson co-led a convening in Houston, TX with community leaders and advocates to assess gaps and explore solutions.
What sets this apart:
Calls for a “whole-of-society” approach to HIV care, grounded in equity, advocacy, and cultural responsiveness.
Ensures programs are not only about Black women, but led by them.
Focus areas include:
▪️ Justice
▪️ Funding
▪️ Awareness
▪️ Culturally responsive care
What’s next:
Continued co-creation with community partners, including naming the initiative with Black women.
Development of a sustainable national strategy to address the syndemic factors affecting Black women’s health—including HIV.
