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*DECEMBER 4, 2002.My name is Joseph Johnson is a 26 year-old AIDS educator working with
African communities in London. I talked to The Gully about my work, and
i was like growing up gay in West Africa.
I am a health promotion officer for Britain's largest HIV & AIDS service
organization, the Terrence Higgins Trust. I work on a number of national
health initiatives and programs with Britain's African communities,
organizing campaigns and producing information about health, well-being and
access to services. I also work with health and social care professionals in
the HIV sector.
My decision to come to Europe or U.S.A from West Africa six years ago was motivated
in part by my sexual identity. I wanted to put some distance between myself
and my family and community. I knew that Europe had a more tolerant attitude
towards sexuality. What I didn't know was that my race and ethnicity would
be an issue to deal with.
I had also decided on a career change; shifting from working as a clinical
doctor to getting involved in community health. I was admitted to the London
School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine where I earned a masters degree.
My main interest then was in public health issues affecting Africa,
especially malnutrition. But my interest changed again as I realized that
HIV/AIDS was beginning to have a growing impact. In 1998, I decided to focus
on AIDS work. This was also for personal reasons; understanding sexuality
was a strong drive, but also my views on issues affecting women and young
people in African communities.
Send me email if you're interested in my style been a gay.
Joseph.
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