To our brothers and sisters living today, as you prepare to celebrate the holidays this year, we are the voices of those who came before you, lost to the disease that took us when society looked away. We are Black men and women who were here once, filled with hopes and dreams, love and laughter. But HIV and AIDS took us—took us in silence, took us in stigma, and took us from the embrace of our families, our communities, and our futures. Today, we want to speak to you, to make sure you know that AIDS and HIV are still very real, still taking Black lives.
Too many think of HIV as something from the past, a battle long fought and won. But HIV isn’t gone, and it certainly hasn’t stopped claiming Black lives. In fact, it’s still thriving in the shadows, where stigma lives, and where people fear to speak openly about prevention, testing, and the need to protect ourselves and each other. When we were living, society ignored us or told us to stay silent, to hide our struggles. We know the pain of isolation, of being judged, of not having the information and support we needed. We don’t want that for you today.
Today, you have tools that we didn’t. There are ways to protect yourself—condoms, PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis), regular testing, open communication with partners. These aren’t just words; they are real protections, lifelines that can keep you from facing the battle we lost. Protect yourself, not just for you but for the future we wanted to see in your eyes. When you protect yourself, you protect your community, your family, and the legacy of all those who came before you.
Now, the conversation about sex and HIV prevention can be difficult, and yes, it takes courage. But it’s a conversation that saves lives. Talk to your partner, your friends, your family. Go to the clinics. Get tested. Do not let embarrassment or fear stop you. We know it’s hard; we’ve been there. But let our memory be the reason you protect yourself.
Know this: HIV and AIDS are not a judgment, not a curse, but a disease—a disease that can be prevented, managed, and defeated with the right knowledge and the right actions. Remember us, honor us, by living your life safe, aware, and unafraid to demand the care and respect you deserve.
We may not be here to guide you physically, but our voices remain, urging you to protect yourselves. Protect each other. Hold fast to life and health. This battle isn’t over until HIV is no longer taking Black lives, and we’re counting on you to help bring that day closer.
