Blog 1/26/26

Honoring National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day | 2026 Black Futures Month

On December 1, 2025, the White House did not recognize World AIDS Day for the first time in its 37-year history.

Now, as we approach what will be the 27^th year of National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (NBHAAD) on February 7, you cannot find it listed on any government websites except in their archives. The federal government wiped NBHAAD from hiv.gov along with several other HIV/AIDS awareness days, including Trans HIV/AIDS Testing Day and Gay Men’s HIV/AIDS Awareness Day.

This is deliberate erasure. The current administration is continuing its war on diversity, equity, and inclusion. Combined with historic cuts to HIV funding and other social safety nets like Medicaid/Medicare, it is an attack on the life and health of many vulnerable communities. This is unacceptable. We will not go back.

At Equitas Health, we are committed to increasing access to HIV prevention and treatment for communities of color. Please join us in honoring NBHAAD through advocacy, events, and more.

Learn about and get on PrEP.

PrEP is 99% effective at stopping HIV. It has been used safely since 2012, and most Ohioans can get PrEP free. You take PreP as a once-daily pill. You can also get a PrEP shot every 3 or 6 months if a daily pill is not right for you.

Many people think that PrEP is only for gay men. This is incorrect! PrEP is for everyone.

“Black women deserve sex that is joyful, pleasure-centered,
and protected. PrEP helps make that possible.”
– Brittany “Brit” M. Williams, PH.D

Check out our PrEP FAQ to learn more. There is information about PrEP basics, where to make an appointment, how to get it for free, and more!

Talk to your community about sexual health.

Many people fear the stigma surrounding HIV. When you talk about it, especially with like-minded peers, it can help lessen that fear. It helps make taking care of your sexual health normal – and not something to ignore or hide. At Equitas Health, you have options for finding community.

Brothers in Unity | Affirming social and wellness events for same gender-loving men of color. BIU also offers access to PrEP and free HIV/STI testing at bars and universities around Central Ohio.

Real POZ Women | Support, empowerment, and advocacy for Black women living with HIV. This group meets in-person in Dayton, Ohio.

Positive Sisterhood | Community and sisterhood for Black and Brown women living with HIV. Meets online every 1^st and 3^rd Wednesday.

OHIV Hotline | Talk with a sexpert in an online chat. You can also find low/no-cost sexual health resources, like free condoms, at-home HIV tests, and more.

For more HIV peer groups, visit equitashealth.com/starthealing. 

Attend a National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day Event.

NBHAAD Brunch and a Show! | FEB 7 from 12 – 4 PM | Watch and perform at an open mic while enjoying free brunch and mimosas. This event is in Cincinnati, Ohio. Learn more and RSVP.

African American Wellness Agency’s NBHAAD Karaoke Night | FEB 6 from 5:30 – 8 PM | Stop by Waves Bar and Kitchen for a day dedicated to raising awareness about HIV/AIDS in the Black community. This event is in Columbus, Ohio. Learn more.

Did we miss a NBHAAD event? Email socialmedia@equitashealth.com with details. Thank you!