National Transgender HIV Testing Day is a day of awareness for the transgender community around HIV and AIDS. In the United States, more than a million adults identify as transgender. Transgender women are at high risk of having HIV and of contracting HIV.
Transgender women of color, especially black/African American and Hispanic/Latina women, experience disproportionately high rates of HIV. A 2013 report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says the percentage of transgender people who received a new HIV diagnosis was more than three times the national average..
“Focusing specifically on Trans individuals is important,” says Camille Lewis of Empower U. “It’s vital to know your status and destroy the stereotypes that are stamped on us. If you are (HIV) positive, get proper health care and remain happy, healthy and fabulous. If you’re (HIV) negative, continue to use safe practices and have routine checkups with your primary care physician.”
Events will be held throughout South Florida to commemorate this day including:
Goddesses of Florida Party
Boardwalk Bar
April 16th 8 p.m.
The party will feature performances by popular Trans showgirls, and will honor Tiffany Arieagus for her dedicated service to the community. The party series is made possible by a grant from the Trans Justice Funding Project. Arianna’s Center will be providing free HIV testing, and the Broward Department of Health will be offering free STI testing during the event. Arianna’s Center has also partnered with TransSOCIAL, Inc., a fellow Trans-led non-profit, to provide additional resources to attendees of the Goddesses of Florida parties.
Pride Center Panel Discussion
A talk about HIV/AIDS within the transgender community. Light refreshments will be provided.
Tuesday, April 17 at 6 p.m.- 8 p.m.
3160 NW 9th Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311
Survivor’s Pathway Testing
Free HIV, STD, and Hepatitis C testing provided by FDOH Miami Dade County.
Wednesday, April 18, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
1801 Coral Way, Miami, FL 33145
