HIV Criminalization: To Tell or Not, That Is the Question

Image

Marissa Gonzalez and words "HIV is not a crime".

Since my 2016 diagnosis in Florida, I've always known if I don't disclose my HIV status to a sexual partner I could be criminalized. Essentially it didn't matter because morally I felt that I should tell the person, but at what point do I not get to put myself in a potentially stigmatized or worse situation? ? Oh, and did I mention rejection? Cause no matter how many times you "prepare" yourself for it, it still stings.

Modernized laws, which don't exist in all states, most often focus on intent to transmit vs disclosure. I now find myself in a state that does not require me to disclose my status but the depth of me still feels moral obligation. Above that, who wants to waste their time if HIV is going to cause someone to run?! I'd rather it be from the beginning and not after some time was invested. Continue reading...

0
Groups
A Girl Like Me

Comments

0 comments

Image

Members of The Well Project community at USCHA 2022.

Become a Member

Join our community and become a member to find support and connect to other women living with HIV.

Join now >

banner

Hands of various skin tones linking pinky to thumb in a row.

Did you just test HIV+?

Newly diagnosed with HIV and not sure what to do? You are not alone.

Get help & information >

Do you get our newsletter?

¿Recibe nuestro boletín?

Sign up for our monthly Newsletter and get the latest info in your inbox.

Suscríbase a nuestro boletín mensual y reciba la información más reciente en su bandeja de entrada.

You Can Help!

Together, we can change the course of the HIV epidemic…one woman at a time!

Please donate now!>