AIDS Activists Activism

Photos of AIDS activist Bob Bowers and friends.

An AIDS activist is someone who campaigns for the rights and well-being of people affected by HIV/AIDS, and for a societal response to the pandemic. AIDS activism has taken place since the 1980s, and has involved a variety of efforts, including:

Raising awareness: AIDS activism seeks to raise awareness about HIV/AIDS and fight stigma.
Advocating for rights: AIDS activists advocate for the rights and access to treatment for people with HIV/AIDS.
Fighting discrimination: AIDS activists fight discrimination against people with HIV/AIDS.
Mobilizing funding: AIDS activists mobilize funding sources for treatment and care.
Advancing science: AIDS activists work to scientifically advance treatment for HIV/AIDS.
Changing policies: AIDS activists work to change government policies and popular culture.

AIDS activism began in the early 1980s in response to the AIDS epidemic in gay communities. One example of AIDS activism is the work of ACT UP, an organization that disrupted the FDA headquarters in 1988 to demand changes to the drug approval process

Bob Bowers HIV/AIDS survivor AIDS Memorial Quilt Washington, DC National Mall Activist Advocate

ACT UP - Silence = death

COMPASSION IS OUR CURE®

I just wanted to tell you that your site brought both tears to my eyes, chills to my skin, and peace to my heart. I have not been directly affected by AIDS on a personal level, however, being a nurse, my final goal is to be involved in the fight for research and a cure. I never look at people's websites, but something told me to check yours out. I have been directly affected by cancer several times which is another type of research I'd like to do, but I feel like the Lord is pushing me to work with HIV/AIDS patients and I'm not really sure why. And I love your saying Compassion is our cure.... b/c it is the truth in this world through and through. I just really wanted to say I think it's awesome what you are doing, and I wish more people would be on the proactive side of this fight.

~ Erin

one Tough Pirate

You have to be one of the most amazing men. This just shows people that you can't tell from the outside someone is living with AIDS. Protect yourself and others. I love how open and honest you are about your life. And how AIDS hasn't made you lay down and die.
~ Bren

About Bob Bowers

Aging with HIV/AIDS

Today, over 1.2 million Americans live with HIV, and nearly 38 million worldwide. Once a death sentence, HIV infection is now considered a chronic condition, which once diagnosed can be managed with medication. But there is still much work to be done, education, testing, and access to care remain issues in many places.

Bob Bowers' Tattoos

HIV AIDS long-term survivor Bob Bowers aka One Tough Pirate Advocate Educator Activist 61 years old

Even when HIV is well-controlled, people may develop aging-related conditions at a younger age. People living with HIV are significantly more likely to develop cardiovascular disease than people without HIV. Older people living with HIV also have an increased risk of dementia, diabetes, osteoporosis, frailty, some cancers, and falls. It is common for older adults with HIV to experience mental illness, especially depression and addiction, and they tend to be more isolated, according to the National Institute on Aging.

HIVictorious, Inc.

Aging with HIV AIDS long-term survivor Bob Bowers aka One Tough Pirate
Advocate Educator Activist

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), of the nearly 1.1 million people living with diagnosed HIV in the United States and dependent areas in 2022, 64% were aged 45 and older.

About Bob Bowers

AIDS ACtivists/activism

AIDS Activism for The Campaign to END AIDS

AIDS Activism for The Campaign to END AIDS

AIDS Activism for The Campaign to END AIDS

AIDS Activists Rule!

AIDS Activism for The Campaign to END AIDS

AIDS Activism for The Campaign to END AIDS