Contest of one-min films aims to tackle HIV/AIDS stigma

PANAJI

: In order to challenge HIV and AIDS-related stigma and explore its negative impact on people living with HIV, the Human Touch Foundation, a youth-led organization that works in the field of HIV is organizing a one-minute film competition on HIV stigma. The theme seeks to do away with HIV and AIDS discrimination in terms of self and social acceptance, access to HIV prevention and treatment services, education and employment opportunities as well as many other aspects of everyday life.

“HIV and AIDS-related stigma and discrimination refer to negative perceptions and attitudes, misconceptions, prejudice and abuse directed at people living with HIV. Despite the remarkable progress made in advancing HIV science, stigma and discrimination which is founded on the fear surrounding the early AIDS pandemic in the 1980s continues to persist to this day,” says founder, Human Touch Foundation, Peter Borges.

The consequences of stigma and discrimination are invariably devastating, he adds, stating that some people are shunned by family, friends, community and society, while others face poor treatment in healthcare and education settings, violation of their human rights, and psychological damage. “These push people living with HIV and key populations further underground, limiting their access to HIV prevention, testing, treatment and other lifesaving health services,” he says.

The contest is open to students of higher secondary schools and colleges affiliated to Goa Board and Goa University. The last date to submit the films November 20 by email- getintouch@humantouch.ngo. Richard Williams (M-81975 49909) and Yasin Kalagar (M-78754 04325) can be contacted for details.


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