One of my favorite groups is TLC. The song “Waterfalls” was released in 1995. I remember hearing the song and listening to the lyrics. It was in 1996, I recall listening to an interview, and they discussed the lyrics to the song and its relevance. The song brought attention to the issues of illegal drug sales, promiscuity, and HIV/AIDS. The video was a poignant visual statement to help bring awareness to the illness initially considered the disease of those living alternative lifestyles.
HIV/AIDS, or human immunodeficiency virus, is considered by some authors a global pandemic. However, the WHO currently uses the term ‘global epidemic’ to describe HIV. As of 2018, approximately 37.9 million people are infected with HIV globally. There were about 770,000 deaths from AIDS in 2018.
Today, we have celebrities who are open about being HIV positive, which significantly increased awareness and improved education surrounding the virus.
Famous celebrities
Charlie Sheen, Jonathan Van Ness, Magic Johnson, Billie Porter, Javier Munoz, and Danny Pintauro
Deceased
Rock Hudson, Freddie Mercury, Eazy-E
“I’m not saying this because I’m looking for a soft cushion wherever I’m heading. I just feel that I’ve got thousands and thousands of young fans that have to learn about what’s real when it comes to aids.” Eazy-E
To learn more about HIV prevention and general education: Prevention | HIV Basics | HIV/AIDS | CDC
Marsha N. Lindsay
Chief Diversity Equity And Inclusion Officer – Presidents Office
