Your Words Can Make a Difference in the Fight Against HIV Stigma

+ Booklet text Slide 1: Fight Against Stigma — How to Talk About HIV Stigma hurts, but your words can heal. This quick guide will teach you what to say to help break the stigma. Slide 2: What is HIV stigma? What is HIV stigma? Negative attitudes and beliefs about people with HIV. How does stigma hurt? Stigma often leads to discrimination. Stigma makes people feel isolated and ashamed, and can keep them from getting the help they need. Slide 3: Women and HIV 1 in 4 people living with HIV in the U.S. are women. Of women living with HIV in the U.S., women of color have the highest rates of HIV-related deaths. Women of all ages, races and ethnicities can get HIV. Reducing stigma can encourage women to reach out to get the care they need. Slide 4: What to say: HIV basics HIV means human immunodeficiency virus. If left untreated, HIV can lead to AIDS (acquired immunodeficiency syndrome). Don’t say: AIDS when referring to the human immunodeficiency (HIV) virus Instead, say: HIV