Centro Hispano is partnering with OutReach LGBTQ+ Community Center and Vivent Health to provide free HIV/STI testing during the hours of their Mercadito on Thursday, Oct. 12, 5-7 p.m. Centro Hispano is located at 801 W. Badger Rd.
“El Día Nacional de Concientización sobre el SIDA entre los Latinos (National Latinx AIDS Awareness Day) is a day to stop the stigma and address the disproportionate impact of HIV on Latine communities through testing, prevention, and treatment,” Marcos Lozano, Development Assistant at Centro Hispano, tells Madison365.
Centro’s Mercadito, which is held every Thursday, is a space for joy and community and togetherness where vendors offer food, crafts and groceries.
Lozano explains the importance of creating a space for healthy conversations surrounding HIV/STI testing as well as addressing social stigmas that have harmed and limited access to testing, especially in communities of color. Lozano goes on to tell Madison365, “It’s important for our community to learn and talk about HIV and other sexually transmitted infections so that we can help each other stay healthy and reduce stigma… We are a community and we take care of each other.”
A main highlight of this event is the mission of preventing HIV/STI transmission through education, increased awareness and access to resources that help highly impacted communities receive the care and treatment they need. To learn more about Centro Hispano, or contact the organization for event accommodations visit their website.
