(Wo)manifestoes for Positive Women - PhotoVoice - Ethical photography for social change

Being diagnosed with HIV can feel like devastating news. NAZ is a sexual health charity that provides support and guidance for women living with HIV, from the Black, Asian, Minority Ethnic (BAME) communities.

PhotoVoice delivered a four-week project with NAZ to offer the women a platform to share their perspectives and experiences. The women produced a body of work that challenges HIV related stigma. Their photographs show daily life, normal routines and ask for a better global understanding of what it means to live with HIV.

The (Wo)manifestos below are honest and thought provoking accounts written by courageous women.

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I’m a strong positive woman.

I’m HIV positive but that doesn’t define me.

I have a family, a life, a partner.

A mother, a brother, a father, a sister.

I bleed like you.

I cry like you.

I sleep like you.

I walk like you.

I talk like you.

I work like you, however, I am a positive woman.

I hope one day the world will except people for who they are regardless of sex, religion, culture and illness.

I am, we are all humans that should be respected for who we are and not what we are, all….humans.

Love like you want to be loved!

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Every step I take,

The pain, the ache.

And the drugs I take.

Makes me want to run.

I don’t feel like I’m having fun.

Stigma is a curse.

It makes me feel the hate,

I hope its not too late.

I know that I am strong.

I’m not sure for how long.

I will fight the best I can,

And be the best I am.

HIV is a virus and not something that should provoke hatred.

I am resilient

I am strong

And

I am positive.

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