What is it about?
This study looks at how gay, bisexual men, and other men who have sex with men (GBM) living with HIV experience stigma, particularly when their identities (like being gay or having HIV) intersect. Previous research shows that these individuals often face multiple forms of stigma, but mainstream systems don’t always recognize how power and privilege affect these experiences. In this study, interviews were conducted with five Filipino GBM living with HIV. The findings show how cultural factors can influence power dynamics, which in turn shape how stigma is experienced. Despite the challenges, the participants shared how they’ve moved from being seen as victims to becoming active agents of change, helping and empowering others in their community.
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Why is it important?
The study stresses the importance of collective action to address these inequities and calls for policies and programs that are culturally sensitive and reflect the real experiences of people living with HIV and other marginalized groups.
Perspectives
Conducting this project has been a journey. It opened my eyes to the ongoing struggles of gay and bisexual men living with HIV in the Philippines. At the same time, it has been a privilege and an honor to hear their stories of emancipation from oppression and resilience.
Mr. Aron Harold Pamoso
Australian National University
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: “Because of HIV, It Opened My Mind”: Intersectional Stigma Experiences Among Filipino Gay and Bisexual Men Living With HIV, Qualitative Health Research, November 2024, SAGE Publications,
DOI: 10.1177/10497323241280213.
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