Black Women and HIV: Empowerment through Engagement, Education, and Enrichment

Racism, poverty and lack of access to quality care significantly impact Black women’s health.

Higher rates of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), lower rates of testing and higher rates of stigma continue to make Black women vulnerable to poorer health outcomes, including acquisition of HIV or STIs. As a traditionally marginalized group, and for many multi-layered reasons, educational and engagement opportunities and health data for and by Black women is limited.

HealthHIV, a premier national HIV nonprofit organization, and Howard University, a champion of Black women, are collaborating to conduct research, provide education, spark community engagement, and embrace the arts to create a path to empowerment. Our innovative project will improve the availability of data and develop creative health and wellbeing programming.

LoveHER: Exploring Intimacy, Confidence & Connections

September 24, 2025 @ 3:00pm Eastern

Pack your curiosity and join us for LoveHER, a Love Island inspired experience where real talk meets empowerment. Led by Howard University’s Empower Peer Educators, this virtual event will explore sexual health, beauty standards, and the unique experiences of Black women in today’s cultural circles.

Through interactive discussions, engaging activities, and authentic peer connection, we’ll unravel unanswered questions, spark thought-provoking conversations, and leave you feeling confident, informed, and unapologetically YOU.

  • Break down beauty standards & boost self-esteem
  • Embrace body positivity in all spaces
  • Explore diverse expressions of intimacy & sexual health
  • Master the art of self-advocacy

Come for the vibes. Stay for the sisterhood. Leave empowered.

HIV & Comorbidities: Understanding the Intersection of HIV and Other Health Conditions

September 19, 2025 @ 1:00pm Eastern

This webinar examines the impact of co-morbidities such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, mental health disorders, and hepatitis on individuals living with HIV. Experts will discuss how these conditions intersect with HIV and influence treatment and health outcomes. Participants will learn integrated care strategies, approaches for managing multiple conditions, and the importance of a holistic healthcare plan. By the end, attendees will be equipped with practical knowledge to navigate the challenges of living with HIV and co-existing health conditions.

Navigating Difficult Health Discussions: Estate Planning and End of Life Decisions for Black Women

This webinar addresses essential yet challenging conversations around estate planning, advance directives, DNR orders, living wills, life insurance, and death doulas, with a focus on Black women, including those living with HIV and other chronic illnesses. Participants will gain insights into securing their financial future, honoring healthcare preferences, and making informed end-of-life decisions. Experts will provide guidance on navigating these discussions with loved ones, ensuring that Black women can protect their assets, advocate for their wishes, and cultivate peace of mind. By the end of the session, attendees will feel empowered to approach these conversations with confidence and clarity.

Navigating Difficult Health Discussions: Estate Planning and End of Life Decisions for Black Women

Empowering Black Women: HIV Awareness, Prevention and Harm Reduction Strategies

This on-demand webinar empowers Black women with essential knowledge on HIV prevention, awareness, and harm reduction. Participants will learn about the unique challenges faced by Black women, effective prevention methods, the importance of early detection, and practical strategies to reduce HIV risk. This session will also address stigma and provide tools for navigating healthcare disparities. By the end of the webinar, attendees will be equipped with the knowledge necessary to take control of their sexual health, reduce HIV risk, and advocate for better access to care in their communities.

Empowering Black Women: HIV Awareness, Prevention, and Harm Reduction Strategies

Wellness Chronicles

The “Wellness Chronicles” series features short videos with leading public health experts on all things HIV, STIs, and sexual health focusing on Black women and girls, and aims to empower viewers with knowledge for maintaining optimal health and well-being.

Empowered Voices: HIV Prevention Resources for Black Women to Thrive

Empowered Voices: HIV Prevention Resources for Black Women to Thrive

Join us for an informative webinar on insights into Black Women and HIV, where we will share key findings and insights from the Community Survey conducted in September and October 2024 by the Empower Program. This survey highlights the complex factors impacting Black women’s health, including homelessness, domestic violence, medical mistreatment, and insurance gaps—issues that contribute to increased risks and challenges in HIV care and prevention.

In this session, we’ll explore how these intersecting factors affect Black women’s access to healthcare, support, and education. Don’t miss the chance to engage, learn, and be part of efforts to reduce disparities and advance health equity for Black women in the fight against HIV.

Unshakable Strength: Empowering Black Women

The Girlfriends Podcast is a podcast dedicated to addressing the unshakable strength shown, and the unique health challenges faced by, Black women and girls, particularly in the context of HIV prevention. Join us as we explore important topics such as sexual health, mental well-being, access to healthcare, and strategies for HIV prevention tailored to the needs of Black women and girls. Through insightful discussions, expert interviews, and personal stories, this podcast aims to empower Black women and girls to take control of their health, make informed decisions, and advocate for their well-being. Together, we can break down barriers, reduce stigma, and promote a healthier future for Black women everywhere.

Episode 1: EmpowerHER: Meeting Black Women Where They Are

Breaking Barriers: Empowering Black Women and Girls in Health and Wellness

In this on-demand Virtual Town Hall from the Empower Program, recorded during the International Conference on Stigma, experts provide valuable insights on mental health, reproductive health, sexual health, and access to equitable healthcare services for Black women and girls. The panelists also address how stigma around these topics creates barriers to care for Black women and girls, as well as strategies for providers and communities to work towards equitable healthcare access and outcomes by reducing stigma. A Q&A session follows the discussion.

This Virtual Town Hall was held Tuesday, November 19, 2024 at the International Conference on Stigma.

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Black Women and HIV: Empowerment through Engagement, Education and Enrichment (Empower), a Gilead P.A.C.E. Project, focuses on HIV and STI prevention and care for Black women. Join us for webinars, podcasts, blogs, arts opportunities, groups, mentoring, and more throughout the coming months.