The Silent Epidemic: Counting the cost of being ignored

Black gay men are 22 times more likely to be HIV positive than Black Americans overall, according to the CDC. And reports say that 54% of black gay men who are HIV positive are not in care.

But despite the daunting numbers that illustrate bBack gay men are over represented in HIV infection cases, many express that their reality—their struggle—is ignored. Today Black gay men are being given a voice, a chance to share the stories of shock, struggle, fear, and resilience.

And so, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution has launched a five-part series, The Silent Epidemic: Black Gay Men & HIV.

VIDEO: Duncan Teague talks epidemic among Gay Black Men in Atlanta

In our series by columnist Gracie Bonds Staples, you will hear from five gay Black men who will share their personal stories on why the epidemic has continued for decades, yet no one has seemed to care. Some men are HIV positive. Some are not. All are ready for change. This is Part I.

The Silent Epidemic: In this series

• Part 1: The Silent Epidemic: Black gay men and HIV
• Part 2: How purpose saved this long-time AIDS survivor’s life
• Part 3: How improved medicines helped fuel the HIV epidemic
• Part 4: Young Black men the new face of HIV
• Part 5: Personal stories help counter negative images of gay Black men