On November 30th, homosexual activists will gather at Friendship Park along the US-Mexico border for the third annual gathering. Besoton Cidoso Internacionalalso known as the International HIV Kiss-In. This event is hosted by MPact Globalwhich serves as both a protest and a celebration, amplifying the visibility and dignity of queer immigrants and people living with HIV.
kiss as a protest
The demonstration takes place the day before World AIDS Day and draws participants from both sides of the border. This symbolic act, a public kiss between two HIV-positive men, embodies defiance against prejudice and injustice.
” Besoton Cidoso Internacional This proves that people living with HIV are fearless and shameless,” said Executive Director Andrew Spildener. MPact global. “This event aims to stand up for those denied treatment, safety, and dignity, and to educate the world about the humanity and strength of queer immigrants and people living with HIV.”
Breaking stigma across borders
MPact Global, a nonprofit organization that promotes queer health and human rights around the world, launched this event to challenge the systemic barriers faced by queer immigrants and people living with HIV. This year’s rally will unite activists, people living with HIV, and local allies from both countries to highlight solidarity across borders.
Participants will call attention to the ongoing human rights violations and health inequalities affecting migrants, especially those in detention centers. Many gay detainees face conditions that can have deadly consequences, including prejudice, violence, and inconsistent access to vital medical supplies.
“Gay immigrants living with HIV continue to experience systematic neglect and discrimination,” Spieldener said. “Our presence at the border is a reminder that their lives matter.”
the battle continues
Nearly 45 years after the HIV epidemic began, gay and bisexual men continue to be disproportionately affected in both the United States and Mexico. For many people living with HIV, especially gay immigrants, the struggle for health care, safety, and recognition continues.
“I have lived with HIV for over 30 years,” said Alex Garner, senior director of strategic initiatives and communications at MPact. “Our sexuality, community, and freedom of expression are central to the fight for justice. Standing in line with others who share this experience is an act of love and resistance.”
Visualization as courage
Participating in this event is an act of great courage for many participants in Tijuana, where living openly with HIV remains dangerous. The kiss-in is not only a declaration of resilience, but also a public declaration that gay people living with HIV deserve safety and celebration.
The annual demonstration continues to expand its scope, confirming that visualization remains a powerful form of activism. Each kiss shared across borders represents a demand for equality and a future where no one has to hide who they are or live with the virus.
For more information, Besoton Sidoso Internacional / International HIV Kiss-Invisit mpactglobal.org
Source: Gayety – gayety.com
