The Young Women of Color HIV/AIDS Coalition is an organization for, and of, young women of color that fosters their development in organizing and advocacy skills.
MISSION
To address HIV and its structural causes impacting young women of color 13-24.
WHAT’S GOING ON. . .
Of new HIV infections that occurred in 2009, 22% were between the ages of 13-29; 63% Black and 29% Hispanic women account for only 32% of the New York female population, but together they represent greater than 80 percent of New York women living HIV/AIDS. NYC leads the nation in the number of reported AIDS cases among 13-24 year olds. Preliminary findings suggest the importance of addressing underlying issues that can interfere with a young person’s ability to make healthy choices. YWCHAC is committed to addressing the challenge of educating young women of color about HIV/AIDS.
YWCHAC HISTORY:
The YWCHAC was first convened in December 2005, in response to the steadily increasing HIV rates among Black and Latino youth in NYC.
PROGRAMS:
We Speak– Women Empowered Support Protect Advocate and Know a Peer Education Component of the Coalition for Young Women of Color was formed with 25 young women of color from the five boroughs. This group consists of both HIV positive and HIV negative young women who have been meeting weekly since October 2006. They assist in – identifying the goals and program priorities of the Coalition and the development of activities and events for young women of color.
The Safer Sex Education Parties offer a safe environment which is created by the young women to discuss and learn about safer sex techniques and negotiation skills, as well as have an opportunity to get an HIV test. In addition, several youth-serving agencies table at the parties providing valuable information where young women can access services.
An Annual Health Summit/Film Festival for young women of color in NYC in honor of National Women and Girls HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, in March. Members of WE SPEAK along with the steering committee and general members work collaboratively to design, implement and evaluate the event. The overall goal of the summit is to address HIV/AIDS and its impact on young women of color, in addition to providing information to attendees on issues impacting HIV infection rates. Specifically, the topic addresses educational options, financial literacy and health concerns.
YWCHAC Quarterly Meetings for youth service providers in NYC on topical issues impacting the lives of young women of color. The meetings enable the Coalition to strengthen partnerships with HIV and non-HIV identified agencies highlighting the intersection of youth services and HIV/AIDS prevention because HIV prevention is youth development. The information and knowledge sharing will also raise awareness in communities and agencies to further develop programs, policy statements, and affect funding priorities that include best practices and lessons learned.
To learn more about YWCHAC email info@ywchac.org or visit www.statusispower.com
