The third epidemic: finding our voice in the culture of silence that surrounds HIV and AIDS

Abstract

The third epidemic: that of the social reprecussions and the fear of AIDS, continues to generate the myths, prejudice and stigma, so inaccurately associated with HIV and AIDS, often silencing those trying to live so positively with the virus and syndrome. This paper looks to the development of HIV/AIDS education praxis, from London, New York and Aotearoa/New Zealand perspectives; emphasising the need for all of us to question the culture of silence that surrounds the epidemic[s], while acknowledging the fact that we are all affected by the present pandemic, whether we are living with the virus, educating as to the realities of the virus, or simply choosing to believe that it does not exist. It is in developing our own critical-reflection praxis, (whether we be parents, students or teachers), that we will begin to develop more appropriate and culturally sensitive HIV health education praxis within our schools; along with the voice and infused ability to lobby for policy development that will determine its long-term effectiveness.