Living Out Loud with Darian

The latest campaign from New York- based Gay Men's Health Crisis urging gay men of color to be proactive about their sexual health as it relates to the increase in new HIV/AIDS infections among men who have sex with men.


"Kiss & Tell" encourages black and Latino young men who have sex with men (YMSM) to have open and loving discussions with partners (the people that they are kissing) about their sexual history and HIV status. The campaign was developed in partnership with young men, ages 13 to 19, who participate in GMHC's new youth leadership-development program, CLUB1319. The program provides HIV prevention education, social networking, skills training, and opportunities to participate in developing social marketing campaigns such as "Kiss & Tell."


The concept originated out of the former and homophobic "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy which prohibited gay or bisexual people from disclosing their sexual orientation or speaking about same-sex relationships, while serving in the U.S. armed forces. The youth wanted a campaign that spoke the opposite of this policy-while featuring intimacy and what is possible for young gay couples as they express trust, respect and commitment for one another.


Marjorie Hill, Executive Officer of GMHC tells loldarian.com that "the campaign directly challenges homophobia, and acknowledges the value of relationships in the lives of young gay men while encouraging dialogue."


"This campaign reinforces GMHC's ongoing commitment--since our earliest days--to addressing homophobia and reducing the spread of HIV among gay men,"adds Hill.


The "Kiss and Tell" campaign has been printed in various education materials and will appear in phone kiosks throughout Manhattan in July. You may recall seeing the LGBT affirming "I Love My Boo" campaign created by GMHC on loldarian.com in the past. We applaud GMHC for continuing the fight against HIV/AIDS in the community hardest hit and with messaging that resonates.