Billy Porter Shares His HIV+ Status — Page 2

There also seems to be some miscommunication in this thread about the distinction between feeling sad that someone has HIV, vs. feeling sad that someone has to carry the emotional weight of HIV with them. Many people still experience the stigma of HIV, being seen as "unclean," the emotional labor of having to constantly reassure people that they're undetectable - especially when that's compounded by racism, homophobia, etc. If Billy Porter (or anyone) has experienced these hardships, that's probably worth feeling sad about. But there's a difference between feeling sad about those things / feeling sad for those who still suffer physically, vs. just feelings generally sad that someone has HIV regardless of their viral load or access to effective medicine.

It's not that there's no cause for sadness in any circumstance, but it's important to be conscious, clear, and deliberate about how/where that sadness is directed, so as to not inadvertently contribute to the very stigma you're trying to denounce.

I really think people in this thread are more in agreement than they realize. There is just nuance being lost in generalizations and miscommunication.

It doesn't hurt to remember that except for those 110% in denial, this has been a traumatic 15 months and people may react, overreact, under react, not react, histrionically react to anything at all and just fricking give us all a break over what the Covid pandemic may bring up in many of us.

Updated On: 5/19/21 at 02:57 PM

lots of good points made here re a complicated issue but ultimately disappointing that this is the response to Porter's personal decision to disclose personal information on his own timetable. He isn't my favorite actor/person but he is ALWAYS pushing the envelope in the right direction and trying to use his art/talent to make a difference. Applause.

FindingNamo's posts have been informed and compassionate on this thread for the most part, and not even close to "harassment". Just an FYI.

The majority of you are likely aware of the following information but I thought this would be a good opportunity to share it.

HIV is a virus (AIDS is a disease). Once someone has been diagnosed with HIV, it’s important to know that this diagnosis isn’t the death sentence it once was. This is a life changing illness but it does not have to be a life ending illness if you take your medications, and keep your appointments, and take care of yourself.

Today's guidelines say that everyone between the ages of 13 and 64 should get tested for HIV. In the U.S., for every 7 people who have HIV, one person does not know it. Testing is the only way to know if you have HIV.

If you do not have insurance or need financial assistance with your HIV care and insurance costs, there are programs that can help.

The Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program works with health departments and community-based organizations to provide HIV-related medical care and prescription drugs for people living with HIV who have no insurance, need services their insurance doesn’t cover, or need help with insurance costs.

The program also provides other essential support services for people living with HIV including transportation, housing assistance, dental and mental health, substance abuse and more.

Ryan White HIV/AIDS Program

Updated On: 5/19/21 at 05:19 PM

As always, JBroadway is the voice of reason and calm. He's one commenter I always look forward to hearing from.

I know! Isn't it funny?! I HAVE NO IDEA WHAT I AM TALKING ABOUT AND AM JUST MAKING STUFF UP.

How skilled you are to take it all down with your fascinating anecdote!



HIV and African American Gay and Bisexual Men: Prevention Challenges (AND MORE!)

For the record, a favoritehook up andbuddy of mine isan HIV positive Black man who is on meds, undetectable and living a great life. The idea that "Life is next to impossible for black men isn this country, for gay black men especially, and HIV positive black gay men" is an absurdly overwrought statement.There are huge issues in our societyandand real obstacles that need to be eradicated, but,oh boy, is your statement a hot sack of hyperbolic nonsense."

This ain’t Grindr. No one cares about your hookups.

Updated On: 5/19/21 at 11:49 PM

Lot666 said: "unclevictor said: "
For the record, a favorite hook up and buddy of mine is an HIV positive Black man who is on meds, undetectable and living a great life. The idea that "Life is next to impossible for black men isn this country, for gay black men especially, and HIV positive black gay men" is an absurdly overwrought statement. There are huge issues in our society and and real obstacles that need to be eradicated, but, oh boy, is your statement a hot sack of hyperbolic nonsense."

This ain’t Grindr. No one cares about your hookups."

I care."

Lol! Ok 1 person cares. Carry on with your hook up stories

unclevictor said: "
For the record, a favoritehook up andbuddy of mine isan HIV positive Black man who is on meds, undetectable and living a great life. The idea that "Life is next to impossible for black men isn this country, for gay black men especially, and HIV positive black gay men" is an absurdly overwrought statement.There are huge issues in our societyandand real obstacles that need to be eradicated, but,oh boy, is your statement a hot sack of hyperbolic nonsense."

This ain’t Grindr. No onecares about your hookups."

Way to miss the point. But typical for you.