On Feb. 26, 2025, the Preparing for Higher Education and Destigmatizing HIV Prevention presentation was held by Planned Parenthood and Women’s, Gender and Sexuality Studies instructor, TL Jordan.
The presentation, composed of both lecture and discussion, started with asking what people already knew about HIV/AIDS.
Human immunodeficiency virus or HIV is a virus that attacks the body’s immune system. Without treatment, it can progress to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, or AIDS. There is no cure for HIV, but treatments are available to help control the virus.
The discussion then morphed into the history of HIV/AIDS in the United States, starting the AIDS crisis which began in 1981. The AIDS crisis spread throughout the U.S in the 1980s, becoming the third leading cause of death for men 25-44 years of age. Many common misconceptions and stigmas emerged during the crisis, all of which are still prevalent today.
During the crisis, the AIDS Coalition to Unleash Power (ACT UP) was formed after a lecture held at the Lesbian and Gay Center by Writer Larry Kramer.
ACT UP pushed for improvements in detection, treatment, and an end to the criminalization of HIV and AIDS. Many of their actions have directly led to the treatments available today.
The stigma and criminalization surrounding HIV/AIDS was another major discussion point of the night. HIV is often associated with gay men, people of color or drug addicts, even though anyone can be infected with HIV. This stigma can often lead to feelings of shame or guilt surrounding a HIV positive test result, despite HIV no longer being a death sentence.
Vicki VanDeCreek, the senior regional manager of education at Planned Parenthood North Central States, was the guest speaker of the event. She wanted to spread the right information, and clear up any confusion or misconceptions students had.
“My goal is that students leave knowing more about HIV & PREP and more importantly feel like they have gained some knowledge that will help them to make decisions about their own healthcare and wellbeing.” VanDeCreek said.
Pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) is a medicine that can reduce the chances of contracting HIV from sex or injection drug use. PrEP can reduce the risk of contracting HIV via sex by 99%, and reduce the risk of contracting HIV via injectable drug use by 74%.
Jordan has been involved in the sex ed classes held over the last 4 months, and this presentation has been added to the list.
“I really hope students know that PrEP is accessible here on campus and I would love to see more people getting PrEP from health services and within Winona,” Jordan said. “When we talk about HIV we leave out that stigma piece. We do have incredible treatment and prevention options, but if people can’t access those, then we can’t treat people.”
PrEP is commonly available in daily pill form, but also available via shot at a doctors office at different frequencies. Similar to birth control, PrEP is most effective when taken effectively. PrEP medication is usually covered by insurance programs, but often any additional visits or lab work is not. Winona State’s Health Services does not have PrEP stocked, but is able to acquire some if there is a need.
Regarding the current presidential administration, the WGSS department, along with other organizations on campus, are prepared to help support students. Providing the proper information and keeping students informed about their rights are the main goals of these events.
“We are compiling a lot of resources. We are talking through what’s happening and making sure we have the resources available for students,” Jordan said. “Obviously, people are very stressed, and so making sure students have space to come together and that queer and trans people can come together to hold conversations.”
