Diaz, along with other professional individuals, participated in different informational presentations which focused in highlighting the role that biomedical prevention tools such as PrEP, PEP, Treatment as Prevention (TasP), and U=U have in ending the AIDS epidemic.
This meeting brings HIV leaders together to discuss and learn about biomedical HIV prevention interventions.
The conversations and informational presentations held at the Summit focused on the effective implementation and the need for important infrastructure to turn the promise of new, scientific innovations into effective communitylevel HIV prevention options for communities most in need.
Mr. Diaz was part of a group who introduced and discussed multiple communitybased organizations across the country engaged in supporting effective HIV prevention and care for Latinx gay and bisexual men and Latinx transgender individuals. The presentation highlighted the cultural programming and organizing efforts needed to reduce HIV rates in Sexual and gender minority Latinx (SGML) communities.
“I was selected to be part of this summit as a contributing expert leading a discussion for the O'Neill Institute for National and Global Health Law at Georgetown. Rural communities like Eagle Pass need a seat at the table when it comes to national and international laws and policies that affect healthcare delivery. I vow to continue to be that voice that reminds people that rural communities matter, too. I find it very important that we continue to advocate for our community.
Our systems need to align with the specific needs of our community. Healthcare, transportation, quality access to healthcare services barriers,” said Diaz. “I am committed to make sure that it happens.”
“A big part of that, is community mobilization which is what my presentation at the Summit was about.
Community mobilization means that we all do this together. We may not have the right funding, grants, the resources, but when we bound together there is something beautiful that we can create,” concluded Diaz.