Empower Girlfriends Podcast — Episode 9

What happens when a health condition is labeled a crime?

This episode unpacks the harsh reality of HIV criminalization and how outdated laws disproportionately harm Black women. These laws—rooted in stigma, not science—undermine public health efforts by discouraging testing, deterring disclosure, and increasing fear around diagnosis. From unjust prosecutions to emotional trauma, we explore how these policies fuel misinformation and widen health disparities. We also highlight the ongoing fight for justice, education, and legal reform—essential steps in creating a supportive environment where HIV prevention, care, and treatment can truly thrive.

Learning Objectives: 

• Describe how HIV criminalization laws negatively impact public health and HIV prevention efforts, particularly within Black communities.
• Identify at least two ways in which outdated HIV disclosure and prosecution laws contribute to stigma, fear, and barriers to testing and treatment.
• Explain the importance of legal and policy reform in advancing equitable HIV prevention strategies and reducing health disparities.

Faculty: Kamaria Laffrey

Moderator: Amy Zamot