Naomi Green, a student at Jackson State University, wishes she had witnessed more proactive conversations about HIV/AIDS, consent, bodily autonomy, and sexual health during her time at school. She shared her reflections with the audience at the 17th Annual Jackson Black Pride health symposium.
Green works with the organization Black Ladies in Public Health to educate Black cisgender and transgender women about sexual health and HIV/AIDS. The southern region of the US is now the epicenter of the HIV/AIDs epidemic, with eight out of ten states having the highest rates of new diagnoses.
“We need to normalize those conversations,” Green said. “Because there’s still so much taboo that exists around sex, we’re missing out on opportunities to educate our community about sexual health and choice.”
Green emphasizes the importance of knowledge leading to understanding, acceptance, and change. She believes education is key to bridging the gap between different communities, including the LGBTQ+ community.
“My Brother’s Keeper” hosted the health summit as part of a series of events commemorating Jackson Black Pride Week. The organization aims to bridge health disparities for Black and brown people and LGBTQ+ individuals, promoting equal rights for all.
The event featured sessions on financial wellness, addressing trauma, being an advocate for the LGBTQ+ community, and homeowner rights for those who identify as LGBTQ+. Del’Rio Cole hosted a session on trauma in the LGBTQ+ community, echoing Green’s sentiments about many Christian communities pushing people to the margins of society.
Cole, a therapist and former police officer turned preacher, believes events like the Jackson Black Pride health summit are crucial for fostering conversations that can narrow the gap between understanding between those who identify as LGBTQ+ and those who do not. He emphasizes the importance of coexistence and finding ways to build rapport with each other despite differences.
Ultimately, Cole stresses that more conversations are needed across lines to allow people to get a better understanding of each other.
Source: https://www.mississippifreepress.org/jackson-black-pride-symposium-promotes-lgbtq-acceptance-not-tolerance