For me, stigma represents rejection. It is especially frustrating that a community (the gay community at large) that was so adversely affected by HIV in North America are the ones most likely to be guilty of discrimination, discomfort and rejection. This lack of knowledge and education is especially visible on dating sites where those who are negative refer to themselves as "clean" or disease-free. Furthermore, there is a false effort among people to pretend to be supportive and empathetic while judging your diagnosis and viewing you in a negative light. Sure, they like to have fundraisers and feign compassion but people seldom create safe places for acceptance or access to friendships beyond the superficial. Stigma means that most of us, especially those who live in rural or conservative communities are not allowed to live authentically for fear of reprisal, rejection, loss of income, loss of family, loss of home, etc. Stigma represents the additional disenfranchising, polarization and isolation of a fringe population who deserve much, much love, compassion, understanding and support.

Stigma to me means that everyone is afraid to touch us.. be around us for fear of catching this disease from us.. or the false thought that we are going to pass away at any time from being HIV+.. but in reality it’s just people’s ignorance in knowing the true facts of how this
disease is spread and how it affects every person..I don’t believe that the stigma will ever disappear because people believe that we are dirty and it’s our fault..which is not entirely true in some cases.. then their is the idiotic belief that it is Gods plan for the wicked.. either way the stigma will always be there no matter what we do to try and educate the misinformed..

Although imo, unless we are screwing, it's none of your business. However, there is no shame and should you ask me, and i feel someone should know and are important enough or need to be educated, i will totally open up and talk about it. Otherwise, my 3 f's come into play.

Don't be shy, tell it like it is, person can't handle it, screw them, they are ones with the problem