| |
  
July 13, 2010
Monica Johnson: Building Anti-Stigma Support Networks
by Lauren Tuck
Monica Johnson is on a mission to eliminate the AIDS-phobia that alienates people living with the virus in rural Louisiana and stops others from discussing the still taboo topic.
Twelve years ago, Monica Johnson’s POZ cover story forced skittish residents around her hometown, Columbia, in rural northern Louisiana, to acknowledge HIV/AIDS as a critical community issue. Johnson’s story told others about how a blood transfusion and subsequent HIV-positive diagnosis made her an outcast. As tough as that was, the virus also robbed Johnson of her first son, Vaurice, at age 3. But when the going got rough, Johnson toughed things out and became an outspoken community advocate. Now she’s working harder than ever, championing people living with the virus and encouraging teens and other at-risk groups to empower themselves with knowledge. While she’s at it, she’s also busy shepherding her 16-year-old son through his anger about the stigma that sometimes makes life difficult for his mom and other HIV-positive locals who disclose their status.
It’s been 12 years since your cover story. What have you been doing since then?
I started a nonprofit organization called HEROES (Helping Everyone Receive Ongoing Effective Support). We do HIV/AIDS prevention and education, teen pregnancy prevention programs, HIV support groups and advocacy for people living with HIV.
We also have a program called Mind Body and Soul University, which is our HIV/AIDS prevention and education program. The wording on our brochure says “people at risk” because we can’t say “people living with HIV,” even though it’s understood. Otherwise people wouldn’t show up.
Basically, if you’re having sex then you’re at risk [for HIV] and you need to be in our program. But we have to get people there first, though, because once they come, they’ll return. I think 80 percent [of the members] are infected. Everybody can disclose their status if they wish.
In addition, we have a teen pregnancy prevention program called TIME (Teens In Motivational Education). That program offers academic enrichment, recreational activities and HIV/AIDS education.
Our community program is called REACH (Rural Education About Community Health). As part of this program, we go into the community and do workshops with churches and health fairs.
Keyah (aan African word that means “of good health”) is our girls program. We go into the churches and do educational programs that strictly talk about empowerment, self-esteem, and, of course, HIV is always the basis of everything.
Why did you decide to start your own nonprofit?
The failed support groups I had gone to motivated me. They failed because the closest support group and services in northeast Louisiana—the largest geographical area in the state—were about 30 miles away in Monroe. Some people that lived as far as two hours away came to that support group. It was a one-hour group that met once a week. They didn’t want women to bring their kids. If you lived in one of the four parishes, you would have to drive. Most of [the women] didn’t have cars, so they would have to catch a Greyhound bus. It would turn into an all-day event, and the whole process would get you back home around 11 o’clock at night. I thought that was crazy!
You told POZ that you experienced AIDS-phobia and racism as well as a deep connection with the church. Has any of that changed?
Unfortunately, both racism and AIDS-phobia are still alive in Louisiana, and HIV remains a socially unacceptable topic.
It is 2010, and I cannot name one person in my parish who is actually out now. I know people who are infected, but they haven’t disclosed their status. [The situation is] better, but it’s not where it should be. I still have clients who won’t talk to me in public because they’re afraid people will assume they’re infected too just because I am out and I’m vocal [about my HIV status]. I think [the article in] POZ put it out there for everybody. People thought they knew [about me], but they really didn’t. When the article came out it was public knowledge.
At churches, we have some very good working relationships. When we first started working, my staff and I brainstormed about different ways we could reach a lot of people without trying to keep knockin’ our heads against the wall. We made connections with some of the larger black churches and met with their pastors. Once you get the pastors on board, they assign a committee and tell us who we’re going to work with. We can reach 400 to 500 people at one time versus trying to hold our little workshops and reaching out to people [individually]. When a pastor speaks, things get done and we don’t have to do any more work; we get everything we want.
Years ago you were shuttling between churches. Have you become a permanent member anywhere yet?
I joined a church called Covenant Worship Center in my hometown, Columbia. I met the pastor because his son was one of the young people in our after-school program. I just loved him! He is very supportive of our organization and everything that we do. He was this way before I became a [church] member. I think that was one of the things that drew me to his church because it was one of the first times that had ever happened.
How are you and your son, Avery?
My health is fine, and I’m doing well. My son is 16 now so he’s a teenager. I love him, but I don’t like him all the time [because he likes to fight]. He’s one of the kids in my program. I’ve disclosed my HIV status to all 70 kids in our after-school program. Because it’s common knowledge, people talk about it at home. [In the program] we discuss what the kids would do if a family [member] ever decided to disclose. There are kids in our program who have parents or family members with HIV. I knew [their status], but [the kids] didn’t. We discussed this so the kids would know how they should treat loved ones [who disclosed]. [It’s important for kids to know that] if you love someone, you love them, and their status doesn’t matter. That’s the bottom line for me.
Seems like you have somebody to stick up for you…
That’s what he thinks! I’ve told Avery I don’t need him to fight my battles. But there are some things that he won’t allow people to discuss with him—I’m one of them.
NEW! Scroll down to comment on this story.
Previous Comments:
comments 1 - 14 (of 14 total)
Allison Vercher, Alexandria,LA, 2010-08-16 23:22:16
Great article Tete!! You have always been a positive role model in my life. Your courage, love,positive attitude, and leadership has always, and will forever be a few of the reasons people, including me, will adore you and look up to you. I love the way you stepped out and made a difference that help create a path for others to follow. I am truly blessed to have someone like you in my life. I love you and may God continue to bless you!!
Leslie Muse Smith, Bastrop, 2010-08-16 23:08:36
It seems like yesterday that I met a beautiful spirit - some might say by chance but I say it was God's plan. See God always gives us what we need when we need it and that's just what Monica has been to me and my family! She embraced my children, became my sister, inspired my daughters, saw me marry the love of my life, stood by my side in my darkest hours and even when i couldn't stand or speak - she knew the desires of my heart!And so to the Grand Poo Paw I say thank you and I LOVE YOU FOREVER
Skylar Hollins, Bastrop,LA, 2010-08-16 00:22:23
I am so inspired by you Miss Monica! Your faithful dedication to all of your programs and others is outstanding! You have always been a guiding light to me and my family... and have showed us how to fully live life as it should be lived... I will always forever be greatful for you! I can truly say this article was awesome... though I have not walked in your shoes... I have walked by your side!!! Love you dearly, and continue to persevere in life.
johnson Abraham, Jalingo, 2010-08-13 04:40:28
we are ready to join you in the fight carry on
OriginalTim, Johnson City, Tn, 2010-08-06 13:34:38
This story really inspired me at a time when I just didnt think I could fight anymore. I am originally from Florida and learned how to be an activist there. Now I live in a area that is classified as the bible belt. Because of the ignorance and stigma, HIV is spreading at a rate much higher than statistics show. People just have no clue and when I try to step out and make a difference, I am stiffeled and smothered by nay sayers in the HIV community. HELP!!!!! I just cant do it alone anymore!
Karla Byrd, Atlanta, GA, 2010-07-28 13:33:51
I met Monica through my cousin and she immediately welcomed me into her circle. She told me all about HEROES and showed me around. Monica is truly a strong woman and I commend her on reaching out to help others. What a great article! I hope it inspires people to "come out" and be a blessing to others. Luv you girl!!
Danielle Woods, Little Rock, AR, 2010-07-28 08:49:28
I have known Monica for what seems like a lifetime. She always goes out of her way to take care of those in her inner circle...that naturally flows over into helping anyone in need. The article was great.
Washonda Ellis, Snellville ,Ga, 2010-07-28 00:07:13
GREAT ARTICLE!! Monica, Thank you for being a wonderful friend !! You always take one for the team, I pray people take notice and obtain a understanding.You are a inspiration to me I Love you .
MARYETTA ROSS, Alexandria, 2010-07-27 23:42:51
Monica your the best sister any one could ask for and I mean that. I don't know if I could be as bold and out spoken as you. Keep up the good works your reward is on it way.
Patrick Gandy, Monarch Beach, 2010-07-16 20:12:38
Monica was the first on camera woman living with HIV that I ever interviewed. She is kind, generous, fearless, and her heart smiles all the time.
Monica invited me to Louisiana, to HEROES, to talk to additional people who have a story to tell about HIV. Our Silence Is Broken campaign is enriched because of her knowledge and willingness to tell the truth about HIV and AIDS.
Thank you, Monica!
re johnson, texas, 2010-07-16 17:47:50
Girl this was awesome. Because of you I can speak out & correct the educated dumb-asses who think they know more than they do about hiv/aids because you keep the doors open, and if there's no one else I can ask and get straight answers about this, I've always been able to from you. It must be your stubborn will-power that keeps you going cause I would be just like nephew and always be ready to throw blows!! I luv you guh!
Wanda R Browne, Desoto, 2010-07-16 14:47:30
Great article! Especially enjoyed about Avery taking care of his mama. I have know Monica for over 30 years and her strength and beauty has always shined through. She is a 2nd mother to my children and is my sister and best friend for lifetime. For those that know her, it wouldn't be a surprise that others could same the same. Love you Friend! Great article.
olupot Richard Michael, Kampala -Uganda, 2010-07-16 06:17:35
This story sends a lot of information we all need to embrance to help those who are affected. Iwould love to work with you,in this organisation if possible. Iam male Uganda with Diploma in Science Laboratory technology,5 years experience in working with refugee coomunities in HIV/AIDS Prevention and control and currently joining my finial year study for an award of Bachelro of Science degree in Public health. Cuurently conducting my research on factors affecting immunsation coverage.
CindyWheeler, Columbia,La71418, 2010-07-15 12:40:43
I know Monica & happen to live accross the street.She is very informative on Hiv/aids & has anwsered so many of the questions I have had over the years. She & her program are an asset to this community. Monica raises her son with much respect for other's & she is a living testiment of what can be done in the face of adversity!
comments 1 - 14 (of 14 total)
[Go to top]
|
 |
