dis•crim•i•na•tion
Pronunciation: \dis-ˌkri-mə-ˈnâ-shən\
Function: noun
1 a: the act of discriminating b: the process by which two stimuli differing in some aspect are responded to differently 2: the quality or power of finely distinguishing 3 a: the act, practice, or an instance of discriminating categorically rather than individually b: prejudiced or prejudicial outlook, action, or treatment.

When the word discrimination is used along with HIV/AIDS most will think back to the late 1980s when fear and lack of education ran rampent in the United States. The reality is discrimination continues to exist where HIV/AIDS is concerned. Changes have occurred, however. In the past, people may have had their homes fire bombed or be forced to move back “home” for care and support. Today the instances of discrimination are different. Where once congregations and businesses requested HIV/AIDS education, organizations may not see HIV/AIDS as a priority health concern. In the past, many people were afraid of catching HIV, but now many believe it has gone away or is no longer a problem.

HIV is still here. Anyone can get it, no matter their age, race, gender, sexuality or income. The good news is that HIV is easy to prevent! Education is the key.