Of course, it's important to be fully informed about HIV and other STDs. However, information is only empowering when you use it. Merely knowing the facts about HIV won't protect you from HIV. Acting responsibly-protecting yourself each time you have sex-will.

Sometimes there is a disconnect between knowing the facts and acting on them. In bridging this gap, we've got to have a better appreciation for our worth and our power.

For one, you should know:

You are not...just a body.

In today's society, some women are often fed the belief that their value is wrapped up in their ability to attract men. Images of half-dressed, sexually-provocative women are in abundance: in magazines, in videos, in movies, on TV. Sex is used in the media to sell products and we're not products.

It is easy to internalize these images and beliefs to the point that we no longer see them as absurd. In fact, we may embrace them. Some of us do not realize that we have more to offer than just our bodies. This can lead to poor judgment and decisions that put our bodies (and souls) at risk. Do not let sex define who you are. It's a false sense of identity.


THE TIME...
It's time to make better decisions. HIV/AIDS is increasing in our community, but it's possible to reverse this trend by learning how to protect ourselves NOW. Let's make a commitment to protecting our bodies and demonstrating respect for our futures through better, more informed decisions.