The Afiya Center, a leading Dallas reproductive justice organization, wants Dallasites to “Get Tested!” and “Grab a Bite!”
In recognition of National HIV Testing Day this week, The Afiya Center reminds the community that HIV continues to be a serious public health challenge in Texas. According to Dallas County Health and Human Services, cases here continue to rise at a steady clip. In 2021, the county saw a 30 percent increase in cases of people identifying as males and a 6.5 percent increase in people identifying as females.
In their newly released, State of Black Womxn in Texas Report, The Afiya Center reports that young Black women account for 51 percent of new diagnoses among women under the age of 25. And yet, sex education and disease prevention programs in the state rarely address community needs.
That’s why the organization is gearing up to host its 11th annual Get Tested, Grab A Bite!, an HIV testing event in Dallas on Saturday, June 29 from 3-7 p.m. in Glendale Park, 1515 E Ledbetter Drive.
Founded in response to increasing disparities in HIV cases worldwide and a striking prevalence in Black women and girls in Texas, The Afiya Center works to advocate, educate and provide resources to empower the community. “Get Tested. Grab A Bite.” has become a major annual event held on the closest weekend to National HIV Testing Day in June. The event includes free plates, good food, and free HIV testing. All information and results are kept confidential to comply with HIPAA regulations (no appointment is needed).
— David Taffet