Does homophobia play a role in the increase of HIV infections???
On the PBS program, World Focus, reporter Lisa Biagiotti, looks at homophobia in Jamaica tonight, in the two part series, “There are no gay parades in Jamaica.” The issue of homophobia in this West Indian Island has been a hotly debated topic since the Gay & Lesbian Alliance Against Defamation (GLAAD) criticized and boycotted events of Reggae/Dance Hall performers Shabba Ranks and Buju Banton in the early 90’s. This issue received further attention with the widely released report, Hated to Death: Homophobia, Violence, and Jamaica’s HIV/AIDS Epidemic by Rebecca Schleifer of the Human Rights Watch.
It is widely believed that the hatred and violence against gay men, in particular, has played a role in the increase of HIV. Some men who are gay in Jamaica, tend not to seek HIV/AIDS education, therefore don’t practice safe sex with their partner(s), much less seek treatment if infected with the virus. This level of stigma, encourages men who have sex with other men, to seek shelter through a heterosexual relationship. And more than likely not use condoms with either partner.
In the United States, it is also believed that homophobia, stigma and isolation has also helped fueled AIDS in the Black Community. Although, the level of violence is not the same as in Jamaica, the issues of shame, fear and stigma are very similar.
If homophobia does play a role in the rise of infection rates, how do we as a community fight against the stigma and fear that fuels the shame? How do we talk to each other about sex and sexuality? And how do we learn to negotiate safe sex, even with a long term partner (boyfriend/girlfriend/husband/wife/lover)???
Much to think about, much to discuss!
Please share your thoughts and comments. Let’s talk amongst ourselves!!!
