Human rights activists are striving to gain control over the HIV/AIDS epidemic that is currently ravaging the country. Attempts at educating Jamaican citizens have repeatedly been made, but the number of those infected with this deadly disease continues to rise. As the number of HIV/AIDS patients continues to climb, so does the number of victims of violent anti-gay crimes.

According to a May 2006 article written for TIME Magazine, Jamaica's "rampant violence against gays and lesbians has prompted human rights groups to confer another ugly distinction: The most homophobic place on earth".

The stigma and discrimination currently associated with homosexuality is actively perpetuating the spread of this deadly disease. Out of fear of being the recipient of violent attacks, many have chosen not to be tested and to forgo medical care for their condition. According to the National AIDS Committee Jamaica, there are approximately 25,000 people in Jamaica living with AIDS/HIV. In the year 2003, approximately 12-13 people died of AIDS each week. Currently, out of every thousand pregnant women, sixteen are infected with HIV. Of these numbers, how many have chosen to go without medical care due primarily to fear? How many more are spreading the disease and do not even know it?

In light of the staggering statistics in regards to HIV/AIDS in Jamaica, the fact that people are afraid to seek medical attention for their condition is a major violation of human rights.

Human rights groups have acknowledged these egregious violations and know that they have a long road ahead of them if they intend to continue to fight against the anti-gay bigotry that is so prevalent in Jamaica. The anti-homosexuality movement is ingrained in the very fabric that binds the country together. While homosexuality is currently illegal and offenders are severely punished, anti-gay hate crimes are often over looked by the police. Because of this, many homosexuals have been driven from their homes by acts of violence and death threats. The Prime Minister of Jamaica, Bruce Golding, is openly anti-gay, and has stated that there will be no solace for gays during his term. Government officials have openly stated that attempts by activists to help those in need are seen only as intrusive and unnecessary. Even the music, which is a large part of the culture in Jamaica, has an overabundance of anti-gay lyrics.

Only through the education of the people can this tragic disease begin to be brought under control. Due to the efforts of involved human rights groups and other committees, the outlook on this dim situation remains hopeful. One can only hope that those who are suffering can one day soon walk down the street, chin held high, and into a clinic in which they can receive the full medical treatment that as a human being, they deserve.

Learn more about this author, Tricia Hayner.
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