World AIDS Day serves as a vital opportunity to reflect, remember, and renew our commitment to combating not only the HIV/AIDS epidemic but also the stigma that surrounds it. On December 1st, the Gilbert Centre in Barrie, a dedicated community-based non-profit organization serving Simcoe County and the District of Muskoka, will host a series of impactful events aimed at raising awareness and fostering hope.

The Gilbert Centre has earned a reputation for its compassionate support of individuals living with HIV, hepatitis C, people who use drugs, the homeless, and members of the queer and trans communities. Their commitment extends through various harm reduction services, drop-in programs designed to educate about blood-borne infections, and the provision of essential supplies.

According to Keenan Alywin, the Linkage to Care Coordinator at the Gilbert Centre, minimizing the spread of HIV is a top priority. He explains that the “Undetectable = Untransmittable” (U=U) approach is crucial in reducing new infections.

Understanding U=U

The U=U message emphasizes that individuals living with HIV who have maintained an undetectable viral load through effective treatment cannot transmit the virus to their sexual partners. Jay Mack, the Queer Sexual Health Coordinator, highlights the importance of this information, stating, “If you get tested, get on treatment, and achieve undetectable viral load, you're no longer infectious, a critical message that both individuals living with HIV and the broader public must understand.”

Despite advancements in treatment, recent data from 2022 indicates that while 89% of individuals living with HIV are diagnosed, 11% remain unaware of their status. Additionally, 85% of those diagnosed are on treatment, revealing a troubling 15% who have yet to access crucial care.

Focus on Vulnerable Populations

It's vital to address the particular challenges faced by priority populations, including Indigenous peoples, Black communities, individuals who use drugs, and LGBTQ+ communities. Many among these groups experience significant social stigma which can deter them from seeking testing and treatment. Mack points out the misconceptions surrounding HIV, stating, “The narrative that HIV is solely a gay disease perpetuates stigma and can keep people silent about their status.”

These marginalized communities often face additional systemic barriers such as poverty, homelessness, and discrimination—factors that exacerbate the stigma associated with HIV.

The Power of Stigma

Awareness about one’s HIV status is crucial, as timely treatment can lead to an undetectable and untransmittable status. However, stigma acts as a formidable barrier. The fear of potential discrimination or judgment can prevent individuals from getting tested. Mack stresses, “The U=U campaign is vital, helping to convey that a positive diagnosis does not equate to a diminished life.”

Despite significant progress, misconceptions persist. Many people still mistakenly believe that HIV can be contracted through casual contact or that it is a death sentence. The Gilbert Centre is dedicated to shattering these myths and transforming the conversation surrounding HIV.

A Vision for Eradication

Both the Canadian and Ontario governments have committed to eradicating HIV by 2030. Alywin affirms a growing understanding that with proper treatment, HIV is not a death sentence, and individuals with undetectable viral loads pose no risk to their partners.

Mark Your Calendars for World AIDS Day!

The Gilbert Centre is infusing World AIDS Day with dynamic events blending education, art, and community participation. Kicking off the festivities will be an Afternoon Drag Tea at the MacLaren Arts Centre, blending activism with entertainment. Attendees will enjoy performances while learning from the stories of those with lived experiences.

A poignant tribute will be held during the Day Without Art, as local tattoo shops and galleries cover their windows in black cloth, symbolizing the void left by those lost to HIV/AIDS, especially within the 2SLGBTQ+ communities.

The following day will feature the Day with Art: a celebration showcasing art created by queer and trans individuals and those living with HIV. Stage director, Jay Mack, emphasizes, “This event represents resilience and the diverse lives of individuals accessing our support.”

Echoes of Hope

Through its World AIDS Day initiatives, the Gilbert Centre is re-writing the narrative surrounding HIV, affirming that a stigma-free future is possible. They highlight the importance of respect, dignity, and connection for everyone, echoing their commitment to a Canada free from HIV.