Hispanic HIV/AIDS Program
The American Red Cross Hispanic HIV/AIDS Program is a culturally specific program developed in Spanish by Hispanics. This bilingual program (it is also available in English) is based on the philosophy of Brazilian educator Paulo Freire, which emphasizes plática or dialogue. This learning method encourages an exchange of ideas and experiences within a group to empower them.
Our new Hispanic HIV Education and Prevention Instructor Course addresses public health concerns for Hispanic/ Latino communities in the area of HIV prevention. It is designed by Hispanics for Hispanics.
The course trains instructors to facilitate pláticas (community HIV prevention and education sessions) using strategies such as role-plays, task groups, demonstrations and practice. Initially, pláticas may focus on sharing basic HIV/AIDS facts and personalizing these facts with the participants. Follow-up pláticas emphasize developing skills including practicing putting on and removing a latex condom, effective communication, negotiation, decision-making and community mobilization.
Frequently Asked Questions about Our Hispanic HIV/AIDS Education Program
What is culturally specific Hispanic HIV/AIDS education?
Our culturally-specific program is designed based on values, beliefs, and concerns that are likely to be common to the diverse Hispanic population in the United States. Messages are constructed based on these commonalities so that course activities are grounded in real-life experiences. This program was created based on languages, customs, family relationships, spirituality, sexuality and health beliefs of Hispanic and Latino communities.
Why did the Red Cross develop the Hispanic HIV/AIDS Program?
It's not only what you say: it's how you say it. HIV and AIDS are a major threat to Hispanic communities. A recent survey from the Kaiser Family Foundation notes that although Hispanics/Latinos represent 13 percent of the U.S. population, they represent 19 percent of reported AIDS cases. Hispanic culture influences the way Hispanics respond to HIV and AIDS. To be effective, prevention messages need to address HIV and AIDS in the context of the values, attitudes, and beliefs of our communities.
The program uses images, messages, and educational tools that are credible and relevant, and that motivate participants to apply HIV knowledge to their behavior. It includes statistics on Hispanics and HIV/AIDS, in-depth discussions on cultural issues and innovative educational tools.
Who is the Hispanic HIV/AIDS Program for?
Our program is for Hispanic communities in the United States, including Puerto Rico. Family-oriented materials and special features for youth help participants explore their feelings and concerns about HIV and help them communicate these to others. Adults, teenagers and children can participate in age-appropriate activities.
This program works because our certified instructors adapt the educational sessions to fit the needs of the group. You may be eligible to become a Hispanic HIV/AIDS Program instructor! If you are knowledgable about Hispanic culture and have experience working with Hispanic/Latino groups, you can become certified to teach this program. You'll need to enroll in our instructor training program. (You may have to complete some prerequisites.) Contact your local American Red Cross chapter for more information.
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