The Greater than AIDS movement responds to the AIDS crisis in the United States, specifically within the severe and disproportionate epidemic among Black Americans. Greater than AIDS, and its partners, hope to elevate public knowledge and understanding of HIV and AIDS through a national media campaign and community outreach, and confront the stigma that exists around the disease.
The core message of Greater than AIDS is about the power of individuals acting together to achieve a greater goal - in this case, reducing the spread of HIV. By stressing unity, hope and empowerment, Greater than AIDS hopes to inspire each and every one of us - in our relationships, families and communities - to do our part to stem HIV and AIDS by:
Getting tested (and treated as necessary)
And, always, acting with respect.
As we approach the 30-year mark since the first case of AIDS was diagnosed, Greater than AIDS and its partners are proud to introduce several new initiatives to engage the gay community.
One initiative is the Deciding Moments campaign, which is a collection of public service messages featuring gay men from all walks of life, including those living with HIV. In these announcements individuals talk about their "deciding moments," (what made them decide to become active and speak openly about HIV/STD prevention, and sexual health in their own lives and relationships) how they are "greater than AIDS," why they get tested, and why they chose to get involved.
One man, Andre, who was interviewed for the Deciding Moments campaign indicated why he got involved:
It’s important to me to represent a part of the black community that is usually encouraged to keep quiet and looked down upon. I chose to get involved as a proud gay member of the Black community. It’s likely that those who hide their sexuality are likely to hide their status, or likely to not get tested. If one young, frightened, gay African-American or black teen sees my face and feels my pride in being a gay man who’s greater than AIDS, then I’ve achieved my goal.
To see all of Andre's interview, click here.
LOGO Television and Here Media have also joined with Greater than AIDS to reach gay and bisexual men with messages and information about HIV and AIDS, and other related issues. These multimedia partnerships include targeted public service announcements and expanded HIV/AIDS news and editorial across Here Media's iconic brands - including Gay.com, OUT, The Advocate, and HIV Plus, as well as on LOGO Television.
For more information about these important new campaigns, visit greaterthan.org/pride.
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