I was in sixth grade when the AIDS crisis hit its stride. Because I grew up in the LGBT community, I watched friends in the church fall ill and ultimately succumb to an untimely death. Funerals and memorials became a regular part of my routine, while other 12 year-olds were going to the mall and playing Super Mario Brothers.
My early exposure and experience stirred a deep passion and commitment for advocacy and awareness on behalf of my friends and the many others unknown and unnamed to me. While it’s easy to remember those closest to me, it is equally important to remember that HIV/AIDS crosses all barriers of gender, age, ethnic, social, economical, and geographical boundaries. In fact, studies have shown that HIV/AIDS is prolific in the trans* community and new cases are on the rise every year.
Last year I wrote the song Nameless as a tribute to those who are living with HIV/AIDS and to those who have lost their lives to this disease. On this World AIDS Day, we have a choice and an opportunity to redefine society’s perception of HIV/AIDS. The stigma can be diminished by breaking the silence, normalizing the experience, and offering support and encouragement to those afflicted with HIV/AIDS. Take a moment to watch Nameless and feel free to share it with others who would benefit from its message:
~ Julie Walsh
