The Sacramento community and people around the globe observed World AIDS Day last week. The observance is dedicated to remembering lost lives, building awareness about access to support systems for individuals living with HIV and renewing commitment to ending all stigma associated with the autoimmune disease.
HIV/AIDS affects roughly 40.8 million people, 1.2 million of whom are affected in the United States. In Sacramento County there were 4,747 people living with HIV and 181 newly diagnosed in 2023.
Sacramento County Public Health Officer, Dr. Olivia Kasirye spoke during the local World AIDS Day press conference held at Sacramento City Hall on Dec. 1, alongside County Supervisor Patrick Kennedy and City of Sacramento Mayor Pro Tem Eric Guerra, Vice Mayor Karina Talamantes, and City Council Members Caity Maple, Phil Pluckebaum, Lisa Kaplan and Roger Dickinson.
“This disease does not care about politics. It can affect any of us, so we need to treat it as such,” said Dr. Kasirye. “We need to look at those that are afraid to come forward to get care because of the discrimination that they may face and combat that stigma with education and correct information about this disease. Ultimately, we need to make sure that everyone has equal access to care and prevention resources.”
She went on to further reaffirm the County’s commitment to working with community partners that assist people living with HIV/AIDS and taking a scientific approach to eventually end the epidemic.
Sacramento County Public Health and Behavioral Health Services (BHS) work alongside community partners to promote wellness, strengthen support and reduce stigma for those affected by HIV/AIDS. Local testing, behavioral health support navigation services and crisis resources are available for individuals seeking help. They can find nearby HIV testing locations using the CDC Testing Locator and access behavioral health services through BHS Screening and Coordination.
World AIDS Day is about honoring resilience, supporting one another and choosing compassion over stigma.
Start by understanding the negative effects of stigma, which include:
- Barriers to seeking care
- Feelings of shame or fear
- Social isolation
- Anxiety or depression
- Lack of understanding or support
Then commit to these everyday actions to make a meaningful difference in the community:
- Use respectful, nonjudgmental language
- Learn about HIV prevention, treatment and ongoing care
- Practice empathy when someone shares their experience
- Challenge stereotypes and misinformation
- Support inclusive, safe and affirming environments