Actor and singer Billy Porter first shared in 2021 that he had been living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) since 2007. By speaking out after many years of silence, Porter shows courage and honesty. His decision to tell his story has helped raise awareness about HIV, fight stigma, and let others with the condition know they are not alone.

Breaking the Silence

For Porter, speaking out was also a way to let go of the shame he carried for more than a decade. Growing up in a strict religious community, he once believed HIV was a punishment. Now he says, “The truth is the healing.”

By breaking his silence, Porter reminds others that honesty can lift the weight of fear and open the door to healing and support.

Redefining What HIV Looks Like

Porter also wants people to see that living with HIV today is different than it was in the past. With treatment, his viral load is undetectable, and he says he is the healthiest he’s ever been. “This is what HIV-positive looks like now,” he explained.

Porter said he hopes people understand that HIV does not define who someone is, and that everyone living with the condition deserves a full and joyful life without stigma.

Porter talked about how he visits the doctor every three months to ensure that he stays healthy. Members of myHIVteam often talk about the stress of frequent medical visits. “At the doctor for my three-month checkup,” one member said. “I’m always nervous at the doctor.”

Another member responded, “I’m always nervous at the doctor’s office too … especially if I’m getting my viral load numbers. I’m sure, like me, the worrying is for naught.”

Members Make the Community Stronger

Since myHIVteam launched in 2016, we have grown to become more than 40,000 members strong. Just as Porter’s announcement amplifies the voice of those with HIV, each new member on myHIVteam makes our community stronger.

Without an HIV community, it can be easy to feel isolated, like you're the only one dealing with the condition. Whether you have spoken directly with other members or not, by joining myHIVteam and reading shared experiences, you have become part of the community.

Here are a few easy actions you can take to welcome and support other members:

• Hug or like someone’s post.
• Say hello to a new member.
• Answer a question in Q&A.
• Join a group.
• Add someone to your team.
• Consider other ways to get started on myHIVteam.

Together we make a stronger community.

Join the Conversation

On myHIVteam, people share their experiences with HIV, get advice, and find support from others who understand.

Do you find stories of others living with HIV empowering? Share your thoughts in the comments below.