The Normal Heart and the Band Played On on HBOGo
If you happen to have it.
I just watched the Normal Heart for the first time last night. It was devastating.
I was a child in the 1980's (born in 1979). I am 36 years old with many, many LGBT friends, and I live in a world where I do not personally know a single person who died of AIDS. My generation did not live with the plague, experience the loss, or endure the terror of HIV. The people who came before us, LGBT and our allies, screamed and shouted and worked to ensure that those who came after would not have to live what they lived. I am immensely grateful for them.
By the time I was old enough for sex education, AIDS prevention had become part of the curriculum (in liberal, blue Chicago). But even as late as 1995, that sex education showed videos about those promiscuous gays on Fire Island, reaping the whirlwind due to their promiscuous (speedo-wearing and butt-grabbing) ways.
If you have a moment, and access, give these movies some time. Prepare to be equal parts heartbroken and enraged.
And - though I figure it need not be said here - get tested. Be safe. I just got tested two weeks ago. Every six months, like clockwork. As important as blood pressure if you are sexually active. Make it a routine if you haven't. HIV is treatable. The sooner it is detected and treated, the better. I have many HIV-positive friends who are living happy, healthy lives. The people who came before my generation endured and accomplished too much for us to take it for granted.
