Focusing on Advocacy during the Darkness

By: Brandon M. Macsata, CEO, ADAP Advocacy Association

Donald J. Trump is a cancer on our democratic republic. For many years our body politic has been increasingly divided between far right conservatives and far left liberals, between the senseless talking heads on Fox News and MSNBC, and between Red States and Blue States. But Trump has capitalized on our division and hence put our fragile democracy in a very precarious position. Putting aside a global pandemic that has already taken 363,727 American souls, it is hard to map out an HIV advocacy strategy when domestic terrorists stain the very fabric of the freedoms they have taken for granted by their attempted coup yesterday.

Photo Source: VICE

January 6th is a date which will live in infamy; it reminds us all that we are not immune from tyranny. Also, Trump's distain for public health and science has fueled the Covid-19 disaster in this country. It has disproportionately impacted marginalized communities already plagued by growing health disparities. Likewise, Trump spewing out his anger, hatred, and misinformation has led to more stigma for many of our communities.

It might seem hard to focus on advocacy during the darkness, but it is necessary. As such the ADAP Advocacy Association welcomes the impending return to a science-based approach to public health, starting on January 20, 2021. We have much work to turn the tide on the vitriol advanced over the last four years. We stand determined to do it.

Disclaimer: Guest blogs do not necessarily reflect the views of the ADAP Advocacy Association, but rather they provide a neutral platform whereby the author serves to promote open, honest discussion about public health-related issues and updates.