June is traditionally gay pride month in most of the country and the world. It’s a time to celebrate the progress we’ve made as a society and culture, and to understand our differences within our own community.
During the AIDS epidemic in the early 80s, so little was known about this horrific virus. Fear and misinformation fueled panic and confusion to the extent people were afraid to have sex. Even worse, some plunged perilously into unprotected sex thinking they would die anyway, so what did it matter? Doctors were struggling to stay abreast of the new information that was defining the risks and transmission of this epidemic, and our government was denying it was as big a problem as it truly was.
So many brave doctors, nurses, and volunteers sacrificed their time, hearts, and safety to find a way of surviving this terrifying plague. We were losing friends and family in staggering numbers. Then a breakthrough….AZT (azidothymidine). This was the first glimmer of hope we had that this disease was conquerable. This drug turned the tide in the fight against AIDS but was far from the only “weapon” in the arsenal.
Latest medications available for those infected with HIV such as PrEP, an Antiretroviral therapy (ART). This therapy does not kill the HIV virus, but it does stop and slow the progression of the virus. This has become a life-changer for those who have once faced a grim prospect and now live healthy, normal lives.
More good news. The campaign to promote U=U is gaining attention! What is this, you ask? Undetectable equals Untransmittable!
This means undetectable levels of HIV in the blood work mean there is no way of transmitting the virus. If you have HIV and are testing undetectable levels, you are safe from transmitting to your partner. Should you continue to use a condom? Well, there are many STD’s and transmittal disease is still out there. Better to be safe than sorry. But what a game changer from where we started!
I always look forward to Pride Month. We usually attend the gay men’s chorus concert in our city and attend the parade. I generally am a spectator and cheer from the sidelines, but I have had entries a couple of times. There’s really nothing to compare with joining the throng of happy brothers and sisters who are expressing their pride and energy for a community of people espousing unity and love.
This is the beginning of Pride Month, and we have a lot to celebrate. No matter where you live or who you love, just know you are part of the community and part of the energy that keeps us all united. Do something memorable to show you are a vibrant part of our collective family. Fly a flag, post a meme…write a song…or just march in your local parade. Participate and be engaged in what we hope will be a fantastic Pride Month! Check out more helpful information at www.sexualbeings.org.
Be safe, be happy…and above all…be yourself!
David Shelton
Freelance graphic artist and sign designer. 66-year-old retiree who lives in Arizona with his husband, Tom.
I have also been a cartoonist, comedian, and have created articles in publications throughout the United States. My focus in retirement is primarily health, fitness, and laughter content.
I create my content based on my own life experiences.
