With the release of the ABC Documentary on AIDS in the Black America, the conspiracy theories about the spread of AIDS continue to run rampant. Was it created in a lab? Is the closet bisexual black male (referred to as the “Down Low Brother”) the cause of the massive spread in the black community? Regardless of how it originated, it has now been dubbed a “black disease”, which means funding…and mainstream concern, may begin to decrease. The following preventive measures are available for those who are ready to take responsibility. Although this list is not all limited to black men and women, it is geared particularly toward them.

1) Protection - Men…stop dealing with multiple partners, prostitutes, etc. unprotected! Even if you don’t have any value for the health and well being of others, have some for yourself and your family.

2) Self Esteem – I have heard women have confirm that comments like “I want you to have my baby” and “the condom will bust”, are tired (albeit, seemingly effective) statements used by men to avoid condom use altogether. Our women need to have enough self esteem to dismiss comments like these. If a man does not respect you enough to wear a condom, is he worth your while? Note: There are condoms in all sizes.

3) Accountability - It is time for the black community to stop waiting for “leaders” to get us past the pandemic. Instead we need to become leaders. As a community, we need to stop waiting for some righteous Afro centric hypocrite or some millionaire messiah in a $2000 Armani suit to come save us from ourselves. The true conspiracy now becomes the ability (or lack of it thereof) to exhibit self control, self respect, and a desire to be educated. I issue a personal challenge to community leaders…step forward and let’s take our health back from this demon called AIDS.

Les Echols is a career counselor and veteran of the freelance writing profession. His writing experience includes resumes, technical documents, newspaper articles and sports features. Visit his website http://www.lesechols.com for more information and samples.

Source: www.a1articles.com