In 2021, the U. S. government headed by President Biden decided to tackle a significant challenge: racism and its impact on HIV. The healthcare department, known as the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), started throwing major funds at programs designed to help. Millions of dollars were sent to organizations that aid minorities facing trouble accessing healthcare, a situation that can worsen HIV. Other programs focused on how minority stress—the ongoing tension faced by people from marginalized communities—can also make HIV more severe. HHS even chipped in to support transgender women of color by providing legal help and financial grants. To level the playing field, the department keeps investing in diversity and inclusion efforts. But is throwing money at these widespread efforts the best way to fight HIV? That's a question on many minds.
