10 HIV-Positive LGBT Characters We Love

We often complain that there isn't real visibility in the LGBT community.  Until fairly recently, we didn't always feel that we were represented as a community in the media.  These images seemed exceptionally lacking in television and film. 

When media decided to throw us a bone, it seemed that the characters were all self loathing images of internalized homophobia.  If the characters didn't hate who they were and long to be straight, then they were comic baffoons who exuded every stereotype imaginable.

The Body.Com has compiled a list of 10 characters who failed to succumb to these media pitfalls.  These characters stand out for not only being representative of the LGBT community, but also for being HIV positive characterizations.  Some of the highlights on their list are Angel and Tom Collins from RENT and multiple characters from the groundbreaking QUEER AS FOLK.   The entire list can be viewed here. 

Are there other LGBT characters or HIV positive characters that should have been included?  Who stood out to you?  What characters spoke to you in your own life?  Please share your thoughts in our comments section.

STRONGER TOGETHER

We know the old addage that there is safety in numbers, but the reality is that it's true.  For instance, the only way you can REALLY know your partner's HIV status is to be tested together.  Often times we can find testing to be intimidating and awkward.  Wouldn't that situation be made better if your partner was there with you?  Additionally, we can find it hard to have a conversation about our wants/needs surrounding safer sex.  Wouldn't it be easier if you had someone to help you with that conversation?

WELL.....

AID Atlanta is now proud to offer couples testing for gay and bi men.  Testing Together provides an opportunity for you and your partner to have your HIV test together and get your test results together, with a trained counselor present to help you talk about the results. Testing Together and receiving your results together can start an ongoing healthy conversation between you and your partner about HIV in your relationship, and allow you to talk openly about building a protection plan together.

AID Atlanta is excited to be one of the area locations to pilot this program.  You can find out more details here: http://testingtogether.org/ or by visiting AID Atlanta.  If you have a partner, I encourage you to consider getting tested together.  You're always better to know your status - and your partner's too!