The Ripple that Became a Tidal Wave: HIV/AIDS Activism and the Transformative Power of Safety Nets

The remarkable conversion of HIV/AIDS from an inevitable death sentence to a manageable chronic illness is not only one of the most noteworthy medical achievements of the past forty years, but it is also a significant political and social achievement.

Celeste Watkins-Hayes, PhD, author of Remaking a Life: How Women Living with HIV/AIDS Confront Inequality, outlines the importance of the activism and community leadership that led the way to address this seemingly unsurmountable problem. She points to the significance of looking for leadership in unexpected places, the value of constructive conflict among diverse groups, and the willingness to see this public health threat through the lens of inequality as useful lessons that can apply to many of our challenges, including the Covid-19 pandemic.

The HIV movement offers a hopeful reminder in the time of COVID-19 of the power of ordinary citizens to change the world and a call to action to address the disparities and challenges that persist.

Join the City Club virtually with Watkin Hayes as we mark World AIDS Day on the 40th year since the AIDS/HIV pandemic began.

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The livestream will be available beginning at 12:00 p.m. Have questions? Tweet them at @TheCityClub or send a text to 330.541.5794.