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Abstract
An African American approach to working with faith
communities in Africa to address the HIV/AIDS crisis
P C Seele, E Belton, J M Howard
The Balm In Gilead, New York, United States
Issues: HIV/AIDS has devastated Black communities worldwide. A clear need exists for culturally competent, African-centered faith-based interventions. Africans and African Americans whose communities are disproportionately affected by HIV/AIDS, can work together to bridge lessons learned in international faith contexts. Such interventions build upon existing cultural strengths and challenge troublesome social norms to create a climate that supports delivery of effective, faith-based HIV/AIDS services at the grassroots level.
Description: This presentation will demonstrate how Africans and African Americans benefit from an asset-based, international approach to HIV/AIDS program development. This approach draws on the strengths of each group. Common understandings such as the influence of religious and cultural mores are explored. The presentation will also highlight strategies to eliminate common barriers to HIV/AIDS prevention, education, treatment and care (i.e. lack of significant funding, human resources, and lack of broad HIV/AIDS awareness, education and resources).
Lessons learned: Africans and African Americans share common struggles, health and spiritual beliefs, attitudes and health outcomes. These commonalities can be utilized to develop effective, faith-based HIV/AIDS interventions.
Recommendations: Successful program implementation supports the utilization of an asset-based program model which bridges the gap between Black communities. African health needs are addressed by building on African resources for improved health outcomes.
The XV International AIDS Conference
Abstract no.
TuPeE5586
Suggested Citation
" P C Seele, et al.
An African American approach to working with faith
communities in Africa to address the HIV/AIDS crisis.
Poster Exhibition:
The XV International AIDS Conference:
Abstract no.
TuPeE5586"
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