The CNP Podcast · Counter Narrative Project

Episode #2- HIV & Spirituality (National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day 2023 #NBHAAD)

February 7, 2023·46 min

Denise Drayton, living with HIV for 30 years, discusses how Black churches fail to adequately address HIV stigma and sexuality. Despite medical education efforts, churches struggle with cultural taboos around sex, particularly regarding LGBTQ+ people and safer sex practices. She chronicles a breakthrough when her pastor publicly advocated safe sex practices despite trustee opposition. Research across 11 cities reveals systematic pastor knowledge gaps about HIV's devastating impact. The episode positions religious homophobia as a core barrier to effective HIV response, citing Pope Francis's evolving stance and Archbishop Carl Bean's pioneering work founding the Minority AIDS Project.

As heard by us

A grounded National Black HIV AIDS Awareness Day conversation about HIV, spirituality, shame, and church hurt.

Set around National Black HIV AIDS Awareness Day, this special episode brings Denise Drayton and Michael Morris into a conversation about HIV, spirituality, and church hurt.

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Why you'd press play

You want a Black HIV-and-spirituality conversation that names hurt and still leaves room for grace.

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