REPAVIH: Love, Support, and Awareness in the Fight Against HIV, REPAVIH, an association that fights HIV in Yucatan, with love
For a long time, stigma, misinformation, and biases have been constant battles for people suffering from certain conditions or illnesses, especially for those living with HIV. This is a situation that urgently needs to be discussed and addressed, particularly in Yucatán, one of the states with the highest number of recorded cases of HIV in the country.
This is precisely where REPAVIH A.C. steps in, striving to make a significant difference by raising awareness, not just among those living with HIV but also among the general public, through empathy, love, and support.
But, what is REPAVIH A.C.?
REPAVIH A.C. is a non-profit organization that has been operating in Mérida for 22 years. REPAVIH began as an initiative of a group of people living with this illness; at the time, the social landscape forced its members to meet in secret.
Today, they have a building near Calle 47 where they carry out all their activities. These include individual psychological therapy, support groups, rapid testing for HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis, as well as private groups and various open activities (film debates, conferences, etc.) where anyone, whether a member of the association or not, can participate. By the way, all their services are completely free.
They also organize raffles and charity events to raise funds, as well as conferences or workshops in schools, businesses, or locations across the state. REPAVIH is one of the main organizers of the LGBTQ+ Pride March held in June.
Their main goals as an association are 1) early detection not only of HIV but also of other sexually transmitted diseases; 2) supporting and guiding individuals throughout the entire process, from diagnosis to treatment; 3) providing a safe space where people can be themselves; and, finally, 4) helping people understand that being HIV positive is not a death sentence. With proper medical supervision and treatment (which, by the way, is free in México), individuals can enjoy a good quality of life while preventing further transmission of the virus. They also maintain confidentiality and respect the privacy of those involved.
Additionally, REPAVIH A.C. aims to dispel the misinformation and prejudices surrounding this issue in Yucatán.
Who can join the association?
Anyone who needs help or information on this topic is welcome, regardless of gender, sexual orientation, nationality, or age. The members of REPAVIH believe that the more people know about HIV, not only will decrease the number of cases, but timely and secure diagnoses will also be provided for those already living with the illness.
When a test result comes back positive, the individual is directly referred to the appropriate health services to address the diagnosis. Usually, when patients show that their detection was done through the association, they receive medical attention more quickly.
How can I help?
The first thing you need to do is contact them, either via WhatsApp or social media, and let them know you'd like to volunteer with the organization. REPAVIH A.C. is always ready to welcome anyone who wants to support them, especially healthcare workers. Depending on your profile, they will assign you tasks and the area you'll be working in. Volunteer hours are flexible and can be arranged to fit your schedule. By the way, the area that needs the most support is rapid testing.
If for some reason you can’t make it to their facilities but would still like to help, don’t worry! They also accept monetary donations or typical coffee break items that can be helpful during their sessions.
REPAVIH A.C.’s mission is not only noble but necessary for our society. In 2024, the thought that someone could be judged or discriminated against for a medical or physiological condition should be unheard of—especially since we live in an age where information is (or should be) readily available. Supporting institutions like this one ensures that society becomes more informed and prepared, breaking down taboos. Most importantly, it lets those living with this reality, or those who know someone going through it, know they are not alone and that at REPAVIH, they will always have a helping hand. Let’s come together to help!
REPAVIH A.C
Calle 54 #414 x 47 y 49, Centro
999 178 3406
Tuesdays and Thursdays, 4 - 8 pm (rapid testing)
IG: repavih
FB: Repavih AC
repavih@gmail.com
REPAVIH A.C. is part of the mutual aid network Mérida Nos Une. This network provides a space for citizens to connect, share resources, ideas, and experiences, and work together on projects and activities that benefit the community at large.
If you're unsure where to help, you can contact the network to explore various ways to get involved, support, and make a difference together. Reach out via cell phone at 999 338 8592, send an email to meridanosune1@gmail.com or meridanosune@merida.gob.mx, or fill out the "Quiero Ayudar (I Want to Help)" form on the Mérida Nos Une Platform.
Get to know more of this causes here: Volunteering in Yucatán: Give Your Best in 2024.
Photography by Carlos Guzmán for use in Yucatán Today.
First published in Yucatán Today website in October 2024.
Related articles
