STIGMA is a social justice, human rights, and public health issue. #ZeroHIVStigmaDay is a global movement uniting people and communities to raise awareness of HIV and take action to eliminate HIV stigma in all its forms. July 21st is a day of action featuring communities living with and affected by HIV, activists, clinicians, influencers, and civil society organizations.
Launched in 2023 in honor of the late South African AIDS activist Prudence Nobantu Mabele (July 21, 1971-July 10, 2017), #ZeroHIVStigmaDay is a jointly supported by IAPAC, NAZ, GNP+, and the Global HIV Collaborative. Prudence set a precedent to encourage other women living with HIV to discuss their status with loved ones, to live without shame, to seek treatment, and to lead happy and fulfilled lives. We chose Prudence’s birthday to honor her work and tireless activism to end HIV stigma.
The 2024 campaign theme, Beyond Labels: Redefining HIV Narratives, seeks to reshape perceptions, inspire empathy, and drive collective action towards a world free from HIV-related stigma. By amplifying diverse voices and stories, this day strives to create a more compassionate and inclusive society for all. Access our #ZeroHIVStigmaDay toolkit to help amplify and action the Beyond Labels message by redefining HIV narratives. The toolkit includes campaign messages, graphics, and other ideas for you to engage with and in the days leading up to #ZeroHIVStigmaDay.
We also encourage everyone to read and widely disseminate the Zero HIV Stigma Consensus Statement, which was released last #ZeroHIVStigmaDay. Reflecting input from an Expert Advisory Committee on Lived Experiences with HIV Stigma, the consensus statement includes nine commitments to guide HIV stigma elimination efforts.
