A review of the persistence of HIV stigma within faith communities

Abstract

Over time, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) has evolved into a chronic condition. Stigma associated with HIV has fostered discrimination against individuals living with the virus, thereby leading to numerous adverse health outcomes. This article examined Christian narratives throughout the pandemic. The research employed a literature review methodology, encompassing the following steps: (1) refinement of the topic; (2) design a search; (3) location of literature sources; (4) utilisation of sources as references; (5) evaluation of the information contained in the various works. The findings highlighted the initial silence of Christian churches during the onset of the pandemic. Subsequently, there was an observed duality between the moral condemnation of individuals living with HIV and the compassionate care that should be extended to them. Recent scholarly works indicated that most churches have emerged as leaders in the efforts to combat HIV and its associated stigma.

Contribution: This manuscript contributes to the discourse on the persistence of HIV stigma within faith communities.