employing people-first language. This places the person before the medical condition and does assign HIV to a person’s identity. So instead of saying “the HIV-positive woman,” say, “the woman living with HIV.” It’s important to recognize that phrases that seem harmless may actually be outdated, off-putting or downright derogatory. Whatever level of stigma such words and phrases bring, they should all be muted from our lips.
The below language-fixes are simple but powerful tools in combatting stigma:
Remember, this is just your starter kit. The National Association of LGTBQ Journalists, the National Black Justice Coalition and the CDC’s Let’s Stop HIV Together resources have published language and style guides to help you dig a little deeper to fight stigma – starting with your tongue.
National Women and Girls HIV/AIDS Awareness Day is on March 10.