Black History Month - An Advocate Since Birth February 4, 2013
As we celebrate Black History Month, we're honoring African-
Americans who are taking part in the fight against HIV/AIDS.
This week, we're meeting Hydeia Broadbent, an advocate for
children and young people living with HIV. Born with HIV, Hydeia
worked closely with Elizabeth Glaser and spoke out about her HIV
status. Now 27, Hydeia continues to work for the rights and
needs of people living with HIV. I recently spoke with her about
her story and her message for young people. Hydeia Broadbent, a
champion for young people living with HIV/AIDS. (Photo: Hydeia
Broadbent) 1.) How did your personal experience influence your
decision to become an advocate for people living with HIV? As a
child, I was allowed to be open about my status. My parents
wanted me to know that AIDS was something that happened to me,
but did not define who I was as a person. My parents knew that
keeping my status a secret could do something to my self-esteem,
and they didn’t want