Photo of person with a moustache wearing glasses and a white shirt. Text on top reads, "All rise for everyone living with HIV."
Photo of person with a moustache wearing glasses and a white shirt. Quote from Addam Moreno that reads, "If I don’t talk about it, who’s going to? I don’t ever feel sorry for myself for having HIV. I’m rising and standing up for all the people out there that still live in fear of HIV."
Screenshot of blog titled, "“Words are Power”: Breaking the Silence Around HIV Stigma." Excerpt reads: "For Addam Moreno, eliminating HIV stigma is not an abstract policy goal. It’s personal. It’s lived. And it’s urgent. 'I think so much of it has to do with empathy, education, and love,' says the 54-year-old Addam, who has been living with HIV since 2010. 'I’ve been undetectable… and actually live a very normal, healthy life.' On HIV Is Not a Crime Awareness Day (February 28), we are reminded that stigma still exists – and not just behind closed doors or hushed conversations. Even in 2026, decades after the start of the HIV epidemic, outdated stigma continues to shape laws, perpetuate misinformation, and reinforce shame. But as Addam proves, it’s stories like his – and his willingness to speak up – that help dismantle stigma through truth, visibility, and courage. 'If I don’t talk about it, who’s going to?” he asks. “I’m rising and standing up for all the people out there that still live in fear of HIV.'"
For Addam Moreno, eliminating HIV stigma is not an abstract policy goal: it’s personal, lived, and urgent. ❤️
Read Addam’s full story: lambdalegal.lgbt/4j7apcvh
Rise against HIV stigma: lambdalegal.lgbt/4cnumwkn
#HIVIsNotACrimeAwarenessDay #UequalsU
