Positive Networks. The positive networks in India are associations that exist to support those affected by or living with HIV/AIDS. They are given some level of government funding and their prime role is for education, awareness, and support. Unfortunately, some of the states that need a positive network the most (i.e. high HIV/AIDS risks states) have yet to form an association. The implications of this are profound as there are areas where HIV/AIDS is an unknown virus, or if known, the myths surrounding it are profound. These myths include that you can contract HIV through kissing, holding hands, sharing drinks, etc. Without support and education there is widespread discrimination and the virus is spread due to lack of awareness.

We travelled to Dharamsala in the state of Himachal Pradesh this weekend for an education/legal rights training session. One was on Disability Rights and the other HIV/AIDS. Of 21 participants, 12 were from HRLN contingents and 9 were outside participants. Only 9 people attended the HIV/AIDS session from the community. There is no positive network in Himachal Pradesh. In a high risk area with no positive network for support or to raise awareness, this is a concern. The meeting ended early with a call for action and awareness from HRLN. The importance of establishing networks and of getting people involved. “If you come together in numbers, then you have a voice.” ~ Feroz Khan, HRLN Delhi.

A.B.C. Abstinence. Be Faithful. Condom. HRLN's acronym for education on prevention of the transmission of the HIV virus.

Access to Treatment. One of the main initiatives that the HIV/AIDS initiative at HRLN is becoming involved with. It is a critical issue. Over the weekend past HRLN received an emergency call for help. A man infected with HIV was suffering kidney failure and as a result required a kidney dialysis. He was refused treatment at a government hospital due to his HIV status. HRLN worked to not only ensure that he was given treatment (albeit privately), but also to file a public interest litigation (PIL) for his case.

Quotable. The people that work at HRLN are motivating and moving. There are a number of quotes worth sharing and remembering.
“In the human rights sense, does the question ‘why’ really matter?” (re: homosexuality)
~ Sunil Gupta
“Equality is not just about what you say, it is about everything you say and do and feel.”
~ Laya Medhini, HRLN Delhi
“Start asking questions that make you think outside the box… what is normal?”
~ Laya Medhini, HRLN Delhi
“If you come together in numbers, then you have a voice.”
~ Feroz Khan, HRLN Delhi