Silence and Ignorance = Death: Uncovering the Federal Government’s Response to the HIV/AIDS Epidemic and the Fight for HIV Rights and Equity

Abstract

This research aims to answer: How did the Reagan administration approach the HIV/AIDS epidemic during the early 1980s, and how did affected individuals employ methods of advocacy and activism during the beginning stages of the epidemic? Reviewing literature and primary sources from the 1980s, research on AIDS United and the Gay Men’s Health Crisis, two leading HIV advocacy organizations, and interviewing an HIV Navigation Specialist from Being Alive LA, an organization focusing on mental health support and wellness for those living with HIV, all contributed to the research in understanding the Reagan administration’s approach and advocacy and activism methods used as a response to the federal government. The Reagan administration remained largely silent during the early stages of the HIV/AIDS epidemic, thus sparking various forms of advocacy and activism. The Reagan administration did not implement enough funding for HIV/AIDs research, prevention, and treatment during the early stages of the HIV/AIDS epidemic, and prioritized military spending over the nation’s health. Advocacy and activism groups took the responsibility into their own hands to create AIDS education/awareness, free testing, acted as a source of guidance and help for those who were seeking it, and organized protests and marches. These organizations pushed for federal efforts to combat the HIV/AIDS epidemic, and the public outreach they conducted ensured that the voices of the affected individuals were heard.