The first National HIV Testing Day was observed on June 27, 1995, and has been observed annually on the same date since that time.
In past years, the CDC and HIV.gov have supported the event. They have named a theme and provided toolkits to promote the day and highlight its importance in ending the HIV epidemic as we know it. This year, that is not the case, and those resources have been silenced.
In these challenging times, as the federal government actively attempts to erase marginalized and at-risk communities, we have seen horrific attacks on immigrants, Trans folks, and the LGBTQ+ community, intentionally creating an environment of fear and uncertainty. We have seen the halting and defunding of HIV research and prevention services, and we have seen the erasure of HIV information on federal websites, some of it restored with homophobic and transphobic disclaimers from the current Administration.
PHIMC and our community partners uplift National HIV Testing Day (NHTD) because we recognize the critical role we play in the ongoing fight against HIV/AIDS when we get tested and know our status. We honor this day by engaging with our communities and stakeholders in several ways:
1. Raising Awareness
PHIMC and our community partners aim to increase awareness about HIV, its transmission, and prevention. Many people remain unaware of their HIV status, and this day serves as a reminder of the importance of regular testing.
2. Encouraging Testing
Encouraging regular testing is crucial for early detection and management of HIV. NHTD provides an opportunity to promote and facilitate HIV testing and reduce the stigma often associated with testing. Early detection allows individuals to receive timely medical care, improving health outcomes and reducing the risk of transmission to others.
3. Educational Campaigns
Health organizations use NHTD to launch educational campaigns about HIV prevention, testing, and treatment. These campaigns are essential in disseminating accurate information and dispelling myths about HIV/AIDS.
4. Reducing Stigma
NHTD helps to normalize HIV testing and reduce the stigma associated with the virus. By making testing more visible and accessible, it encourages a more open dialogue about HIV and fosters a supportive environment for those affected.
5. Community Engagement
PHIMC’s funded partners organize events and activities on NHTD to engage their communities in the fight against HIV. These events include free testing, counseling, and educational materials, making it easier for people to get tested and informed.
6. Highlighting Advances in Treatment and Prevention
NHTD is also an opportunity to highlight advances in HIV treatment and prevention, such as Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) and antiretroviral therapy (ART). These advances have significantly improved the quality of life for people living with HIV and have contributed to reducing new infections.
7. Policy Advocacy
The day can be leveraged to advocate for policies and funding that support HIV/AIDS research, prevention, and treatment programs. It brings attention to the ongoing need for government and institutional support in addressing the HIV epidemic.
8. Reducing Health Disparities
HIV disproportionately affects certain populations, including racial and ethnic minorities, men who have sex with men, and transgender individuals. NHTD provides a platform to address these disparities and promote equity in HIV testing, prevention, and care.
In summary, observing National HIV Testing Day promotes awareness, encourages testing, reduces stigma, engages communities, and supports the fight against HIV/AIDS through education, advocacy, and the promotion of health equity.
Local Resources
In 2025, National HIV Testing Day will fall on a Saturday. You can find local testing sites and resources through your healthcare provider, community organizations, or online platforms like Walgreens and Greater Than HIV.
Use the hashtag #NationalHIVTestingDay on social media to join the conversation and spread awareness.
Together in the fight!
~ Bryan Gooding
Program Manager – HIV Prevention
Public Health Institute of Metropolitan Chicago
