“Stigma remains the single most important barrier to public action. It is the main reason too many people are afraid to see a doctor to determine whether they have the disease, or to seek treatment if so. It helps make AIDS the silent killer, because people fear the social disgrace of speaking about it, or taking easily available precautions. Stigma is a chief reason the AIDS epidemic continues to devastate societies around the world. We can fight stigma. Enlightened laws and policies are key. But it begins with openness, the courage to speak out. Fortunately, more and more people are finding their voices.”

                                                                                                                                                          ~Ban Ki-Moon, U.N. Secretary General    2008 International AIDS Conference

Fear-based campaigns that have dominated the global response to HIV have made people in society afraid of those living with HIV or AIDS. As we pass 30 years of this epidemic we recognize it is time for an approach that does not use fear. Our campaigns aim to correct the misconceptions surrounding the lives of those living with HIV or AIDS. This helps to end stigma by encouraging communities to have open dialogue around HIV related issues

The DOES HIV LOOK LIKE ME? International Campaign facilitates the empowerment of people living with HIV or AIDS around the world to share their stories and take action. They will be trained to advocate and create awareness by discussing the realities of living with HIV or AIDS and encouraging people to get tested. The campaign Ambassadors – people living with HIV or AIDS wanting to make a difference – are human rights leaders standing up to fight misconception, stigma and inequality with their faces, voices and individual stories. These campaigns simple, yet unique, they give people living with HIV a forum to share their stories in the hopes that other individuals will become inspired to create real change in their lives and in their communities. This change could be in the form of giving someone the courage to disclose, to get tested or to not be afraid to love someone who is HIV positive – even if that person is themselves.

The Ambassadors’ ownership over the campaign ensures its sustainability and its relevance in both specific country contexts and internationally.