National Black HIV and AIDS Awareness Day

Earvin “Magic” Johnson is one of the most influential and popular black figures of all time. He is a business mogul, retired legendary NBA player, millionaire,devoted father and loving husband. And he has been living with HIV since 1991. When he went public with his diagnosis he was met with much disgust and disrespect, especially from the African-American community (the stigma around black men having HIV was much more prevalent in the 1990s than today).

In the 1990s, many people thought that only gay males can contract HIV, which is why it was so heavily stigmatized. Not only were black people stigmatizing each other and labeling, but as a community there was lack of social,emotional and mental support.. HIV affects us all so we as a community must take a stand to prevent the virus from infecting us.

Even with all the negativity he was receiving, Magic stayed strong, fought the disease and got all the treatment available. Now, 29 years later, Magic is still enjoying life, making business deals, making tv appearances and spending time with his family, all while living with HIV. Contracting HIV was not the end of the road for Magic Johnson and doesn’t have to be for you either. The treatment plans are out there and you don’t have to be rich like Magic Johnson to receive them either. Contracting HIV is not where your story ends. HIV is not a black thing or white thing, young or old, pretty or ugly, neither gay or straight. Instead of discriminating against each other and stigmatizing, let’s spread awareness and create a better future together. #HIVandminorities #LYFE #protectingyourdrems #blackhistorymonth #HIVawareness