National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day

Today is National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day

Feb. 7th: According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), even though African Americans make up 13% of the US population, African Americans account for about half (49%) of the people who get HIV and AIDS. In 2008, African Americans accounted for 52% of new HIV diagnoses and 48% of AIDS diagnoses alone -- and among women diagnosed with AIDS, 77% were black/African American women. African American women are disproportionately affected and we must be aware of the risk and get tested to protect ourselves and prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS in our community!

Take a moment today - get educated, get tested, get treated, get involved. For more information, visit http://www.blackaidsday.org/ For information on testing and counseling centers in your area, please contact your local department of health, non-profit LGBT organization, or feel free to contact the Mautner Project.

Welcome to the relaunch of S.H.E. Circle's "Talk Circle."

Whenever we come together as women – especially as African American women – there is magic and power!

Based on the principle of Ujima – “collective work and responsibility to build and maintain our community together”– S.H.E. Circle harnesses the power of this sisterhood to empower, energize, and engage African women in a personal journey to healthy living.

As the first national health education program focused on African American women who partner with women, the local S.H.E. Circles provide a safe space where African American lesbian and bisexual women can learn about health issues, ask questions, share information, connect with resources, and provide support to each other.

Let S.H.E. Circle be a starting point for you to rediscover yourself. Learn more about your body, mind and spirit - and let us begin a journey toward wellness, wholeness and health - together. Stay tuned for more information on health topics, ongoing and upcoming S.H.E. Circles, and more.