EGPAF Statement on Racial Justice and Health Equality

As colleagues working across the globe, like many, we at the Elizabeth Glaser Pediatric AIDS Foundation (EGPAF) are troubled by the dramatic inequality we see worldwide as we strive to end AIDS in children, youth and families. Inequality directly threatens our efforts to prevent and treat HIV/AIDS globally, while simultaneously reinforcing the systemic barriers that fuel pandemics like HIV in marginalized communities.

Inequality directly threatens our efforts to prevent and treat HIV/AIDS globally, while simultaneously reinforcing the systemic barriers that fuel pandemics like HIV in marginalized communities.

AIDS has been exacerbated by over 40 years of racial, socio-economic, gender and sexual orientation related disparities. We see racial and ethnic disparities in health in the US and we also see it on a global scale. Black Americans account for 42 percent of new HIV diagnoses in the U.S., despite representing 13 percent of the U.S. population. As we look at disparities facing children, greater than 90% of HIV infections in children are in sub-Saharan Africa – and 500 children are newly infected each day. Our work in sub-Saharan Africa addresses such inequities head on by increasing access to life-saving health services for children, youth, and families living with or at risk for HIV.

AIDS has been exacerbated by over 40 years of racial, socio-economic, gender and sexual orientation related disparities.

As we pursue our mission to end AIDS, we must confront the inequities that fuel pandemics. As a global team, we commit to listening, learning and taking action to empower the communities we serve in all the places where we work. Elevating community voices, leadership and decision making is essential to meaningful progress in the fight for an AIDS-free generation.

As an organization comprised of more than 95% African staff, our organization will continually take stock of how we can do better. This starts by looking at our own systems, structures and decision making to advance our core values and foster an inclusive, just, and supportive work environment for all.

We stand in solidarity with the Black Lives Matter movement and with all organizations fighting to extend the basic principles of human rights to every person equally. We recognize the urgent need to address the racial and economic injustices that make the color of your skin or the place of your birth the best predictor of your access to quality health services and equal rights.

We stand in solidarity with the Black Lives Matter movement and with all organizations fighting to extend the basic principles of human rights to every person equally.

Each of us sees disparities in our communities. We will use our voices to uphold the principles we embrace as a global community – equal opportunity, justice, and rights for all people regardless of color, creed, sexual orientation, or national or ethnic origin.