At Sisters Working It Out (SWIO), we believe that health equity starts with action. On February 7th, 2025, we gathered in Chicago, IL, to observe National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day—a day dedicated to increasing education, testing, treatment, and community support for Black communities disproportionately affected by HIV/AIDS.
Held at the Blue Door Neighborhood Center, our "Building a Healthier Future" event was a powerful evening of education, empowerment, and action. It wasn’t just about raising awareness—it was about removing barriers, connecting our community to life-saving resources, and making a real impact.
Why This Event Matters
Black communities continue to face higher rates of HIV/AIDS, largely due to systemic disparities in healthcare access, stigma, and misinformation. For Black women especially, early detection, preventative care, and community support are essential in the fight for health equity.
At SWIO, we know that when we equip our community with knowledge and resources, we empower them to take control of their health. That’s why this event was more than just an awareness campaign—it was a step toward a healthier, stronger future.
During the event, attendees engaged in a variety of activities and health services, including:
✅ Free HIV Testing – Ensuring everyone had access to confidential and supportive screenings.
✅ Health Screenings & Vaccinations – Because prevention is just as important as awareness.
✅ Wellness Resources & Support – Providing essential tools for long-term health.
✅ Giveaways & Community Engagement – Making health education engaging and accessible.
✅ Line Dancing! – Because movement and joy are a part of holistic well-being.
But we couldn’t have made this event possible without the support of our incredible partners and sponsors who are committed to advancing health equity and providing essential resources to underserved communities. Special thanks to our partners Blue Door Neighborhood Center, Onyx 360 Medical Wellness, and to others:
Walgreens, Access Community Health Network, Chicago Health University, ViiV Healthcare, The Chicago Pharmacist Association, Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, Chicago Cancer Initiative, EMD Serono, Seasons Community Services, Mariano’s, Gilead, Cook County Health
Your dedication to breaking health disparities, increasing access to care, and supporting communities of color makes all the difference.
Support SWIO & Help Us Keep This Work Going!
Your support allows us to continue hosting free community events, providing critical health services, and empowering women with life-saving resources. Donate today to make a direct impact ([Donation link]), partner with us to collaborate on breaking health disparities, or volunteer your time and skills to help us reach more communities in need. Together, we can create lasting change and ensure every woman has access to the care she deserves—because health equity starts with action!
This event was a reminder of the power of community-driven action. From our health educators to our partner organizations, every person in the room played a role in shaping a future where every woman of color has the resources, support, and care they deserve.
At Sisters Working It Out, we stand firm in our commitment to advocating for systemic change and breaking health disparities in our community.
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