Life with dignity
25 August 2006
A project to reduce HIV-related stigma and discrimination in four cities in the central states of Mexico, Vida Digna (Life with dignity), is taking a holistic approach to HIV.
The three-year project works with sex workers, men who have sex with men and people living with HIV – groups which have been identified as being key to the dynamics of the region’s epidemic.
These groups frequently experience stigma, discrimination and human rights violations – which set a challenging context for HIV work. Three new case studies from the project highlight these challenges and the urgent needs that these groups face.
Work carried out as part of Vida Digna includes advocacy for access to services and HIV prevention, the provision of information, and outreach peer support work. Strengthening groups to respond to stigma and discrimination is a key part of making this work more effective.
Pedro's life on the street was characterised by drug use, violence and extreme poverty. An HIV positive test result led him to help other people living in similar difficult situations. He is now training to participate as a promoter in the Genesis project which aims to reduce the impact of HIV on affected communities by reducing stigma and discrimination.
Bringing together transgender sex workers and local police to raise awareness
Fortaleciendo Identidades y Diversidades, a community organisation involved in the Vida Digna (Life with dignity) project, has organised awareness raising workshops for transgender sex workers and local police to challenge stigma and discrimination which undermines HIV prevention work and access to HIV services.
The day after denouncing the rights violations and arbitrary arrests that transgender sex workers face, Norma was arrested. Frightened and furious, Norma and others have in Ser Gay - part of the Vida Digna (Life with dignity) project - started negotiations with the State Human Rights Commission, which has resulted in the opening of a 24 hour telephone service to support those that have been arbitrarily arrested.
