What is it like to be HIV-positive in 2015?
We've come a long way as far as HIV treatment and prevention is concerned. However, stigma is still alive and well -- as can easily be seen by the media panic surrounding Charlie Sheen coming out as HIV-positive just last month.
In order to combat discrimination and stigma against individuals living with HIV, the annual "A Day With HIV" campaign asked people of all HIV statuses around the world to submit photos of themselves that captured moments from their lives on Sept. 22, 2015.
This annual campaign provides a unique opportunity for individuals to utilize visual storytelling about their lives -- no matter what their HIV status -- to raise awareness about the realities of living in a world with HIV and "tackle misperceptions, stigma, and discrimination and break down barriers to HIV prevention, testing, and care."
Over 200 people uploaded photos to the "A Day with HIV" website and dozens more posted to social media with the hashtag #adaywithhiv.
We thought today, Worlds AIDS Day, was the perfect time to share some photos from "A Day With HIV" to help us remember how far we've come, how far we have to go and all of those who have battled against -- and are surviving -- HIV.
6:00 AM: PASADENA, CALIFORNIA
Charles McPeak
Charles McPeak: The discipline and goal-setting of triathlon training and masters swimming has helped me follow my pill regimen. I'm a man with HIV and I'm proud of who I am.
8:04 AM: PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC
Courtesy of Michael
Michael: HIV and LGBT Slovenian activist Tanja with Michael, a Czech HIV-positive social and prevention worker. We are strong!
10:02 AM: CHICAGO, ILLINOIS
Courtesy of Elijah M.
Elijah M.: I am the future of an AIDS-free generation.
12:00 PM: TUSKEGEE, ALABAMA
Courtesy of Bernice L. Frazier
Bernice L. Frazier: Helping to share HIV awareness at a youth empowerment conference at Tuskegee University.
12:37 PM: WASHINGTON, D.C.
Courtesy of Mark Byrd
Mark Byrd: In between classes at Gallaudet University, the world's only university for the deaf. I am a 23-year long-term survivor. My college dream is coming true!
12:40 PM: BALTIMORE, MARYLAND
Courtesy of Cedric Derrel Gum
Cedric Derrel Gum: Fierce and positive! I woke up with a purpose.
12:45 PM: LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA
Courtesy of David Durán
David Duran: Today is just like any other day. I crave new experiences and thrive on setting foot on new lands. Three letters are a small part of who I am, but those letters don't define the man I truly am. I'm an explorer, a wanderer, a writer... and I'm also HIV-positive.
12:50 PM: CLEVELAND, OHIO
Courtesy of Kinsey Roberts
Kinsey Roberts: Working with HIV is a part of living with HIV. I was at work when I saw a friend's #adaywithhiv photo, so I decided to take and post my own from my cubicle.
12:54 PM: AMERSFOORT, UTRECHT; THE NETHERLANDS
Courtesy of Eliane Becks Nininahazwe
Eliane Becks Nininahazwe: I feel great today, and the world should know that HIV is no longer a death sentence! This is how I can break stigma, by letting everyone see the face of a woman who has been HIV-positive 12 years, and is still looking good!
1:13 PM: HOUSTON, TEXAS
Courtesy of Luvvie Ajayi
Luvvie Ajayi: Today is A Day with HIV and I'm joining people from all over the world to say we have no time for stigma in this epidemic.
2:45 PM: DENVER, COLORADO
Courtesy of Davina Conner
Davina Conner: Had to stop while driving and had my sister take this picture. It reminds me of how beautiful life is. Living with HIV 18 years and thankful for everyone who is in my life. Let's stop the stigma and love one another.
4:06 PM: PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA
Courtesy of Mark A. Davis
Mark A. Davis: Today the AMOR sculpture was put on display atop the Philadelphia Art Museum's "Rocky" steps as a backdrop for the Papal Mass.
4:30 PM: WASHINGTON, DC
Courtesy of Aaron Burgess
Aaron Burgess: Wrapping up another day as a Child Protective Services Investigations Social Worker in our nation's capital. Three and a half years ago I thought my life and career were over. Today I have a Master's degree and help keep safe the most vulnerable.
6:00 PM: EUGENE, OREGON
Courtesy of Kelsang Phunrab
Kelsang Phunrab: As an American Buddhist monk, I would love to show that you can still care for and inspire others, even if you have HIV. Letâs add more love into the world.
6:00 PM: LAS VEGAS, NEVADA
Courtesy of Deral Takushi (atop ladder): If you lived every day as beautiful as you are on the inside, you will always exude glamour.
Deral Takushi (atop ladder): If you lived every day as beautiful as you are on the inside, you will always exude glamour.
11:10 PM: JERSEY CITY, NEW JERSEY
Courtesy of Timothy Daniels
Timothy Daniels: My partner and I decided to take this picture after he got in from work. I am HIV-positive; my partner has shown so much support. He's not afraid to say or show that he is in love with me.
