How far do you go?

Two recent news articles have got people talking about HIV/AIDS – and that is exactly what needs to be done – human interaction, preferably word-of-mouth is one of the most effective ways to change people’s behaviours and create awareness (however, correct information is critical). ‘Jesus had HIV’ and ‘Porn film delivers safe sex message’ are articles that have initiated some intense and much needed debate.

 

A Pastor in South Africa has sparked fury, but has also got the world talking, by claiming Jesus had HIV. It is an attempt to de-stigmatize the disease and helps create a supporting, not discriminating, environment for people living with HIV/AIDS.Jesus put himself in the position of the destitute, the sick and the marginalized and put himself in the shoes of people who experience brokenness, i.e. those living with HIV/AIDS. Although, devoted Christians have been outraged by the sermon, it has raised levels of awareness and got religious leaders involved in combating the spread of the pandemic. It is a timely call to get those with religious influence involved in the fight against HIV/AIDS.

 

In The Gambia, a country that is 95% Muslim, people shrug and laugh when I discuss the issues of condoms. Polygamy is also a common acceptance with most men having 4 official wives, not counting their girlfriends. With condom use and number of sexual partners being key forces behind the reduction of HIV/AIDS, the country is facing an uphill battle. Religious leaders need to be involved and although deeply rooted traditions such as polygamy are difficult to change, the first step is to get people talking.

 

The second article refers to the subtleties involved in behavioural change. A recent South African porn film is promoting ‘safe sex’ and raising awareness about the dangers of HIV/AIDS by forcing all its actors to wear condoms. It is a gentle, subtle social message that wearing a condom is acceptable. Although, subtlety and pornography do not go hand in hand, putting a condom in a scene will benefit the black African consumers who will watch the films. Even if it influences one person, it has achieved its task.

 

Although the two articles offer radical measures to fight and create awareness around HIV/AIDS, they are not drastic. And although it is strange to use pornography and bold religious statements for educational purposes, in my opinion, every little helps. It is not a replacement of existing awareness campaigns and BCC strategies, but an extension. And who would disagree?

 

Get people talking about HIV/AIDS!