12/15/2021
Finding the Strength in Being Positive With Reverend Claude Everett Bowen
Today is World AIDS Day and the second year of my annual Worlds AIDS Day personal project. For this project, I wanted to capture someone who has been involved in the LGBTQ+ community before my time and I am so honored I finally had the privilege to capture Reverend Claude Everett Bowen.
74 years old, Reverend Bowen has been a HIV advocate for over 35 years. Diagnosed with HIV in 1986, He was told that he would not live to see 45, and yet he has a list of commendable accomplishments that he’s made since then. He is the Group Facilitator of THRIVE SS, a nonprofit organization in Atlanta, Georgia aiming to deliver support and education to others on HIV infection, transmission, prevention and care. Reverend Claude is also one of the authors of THRIVE SS “The Silver Lining Project” which was created to provide both a virtual and physical safe space for black gay men living with HIV over the age of 50.
Reverend Claude is a prime example of how far technology has advanced since the announcement of AIDS in 1981. What was once known as a gay disease, science has helped debunk the tale that HIV/AIDS is a certified death sentence. The LGBTQ+ community has been in the forefront of this battle to not only save and protect our own lives, but the lives of other individuals as well. Regardless of whether you’ve donated to a fundraiser, volunteered at an organization or is a scientist in one of those labs doing the research, please know that you are needed. You are loved. And appreciated each and everyday for the work that you have put in to make sure your fellow brothers, sisters and siblings live the life that they deserve regardless of their status. Thank you for battling the stigma that your life ends because of a disease and creating spaces that allow individuals who have been affected by HIV/AIDs to learn and grow together. And if you are HIV positive/undetectable, please continue to remain strong. You are not alone and your community is here for you.