By Dawnn Anderson
Residents of Humboldt Park recently assembled to learn more about the disproportionate effects of HIV/AIDS in Latinos and African-Americans. Human rights activist Ricardo Jimenez led the discussion about the services offered at VIDA/Sida, a non-profit that serves the Latino LGBTQ and HIV positive community.
Ricardo Jimenez says working with VIDA/Sida helped him realize his identity as a Puerto Rican activist. He stands in front of an original piece created by the LGBTQ youth at Batey Urbano in Humboldt Park. Dawnn Anderson/Medill
VIDA/Sida provides HIV/AIDS testing for 175 to 275 people every month as well as testing for other STD’s. Nine out of 10 community members who test positive for HIV go on to receive treatment at the center, thanks in part to Jimenez’s persistence. He says he makes it a priority to follow up with community members to ensure that they are stabilized, with proper care and treatment.
Photo at Top: An original piece created by LGBTQ youth hangs on the wall of Batey Urbano in Humboldt Park. (Dawnn Anderson/Medill)
