Woolcock GW, Grubb I; International Conference on AIDS.
Int Conf AIDS. 1996 Jul 7-12; 11: 262 (abstract no. Tu.D.480).
La Trobe University, Vic., Australia. Fax: 613-479-1997. E-mail: polgww@lube.latrobe.edu.au.
Issue: The emergence of People Living With HIV/AIDS (PLWH/A) as a new social movement poses a significant challenge to other key players in shaping a contemporary HIV/AIDS response in western developed nations. Project: Much HIV/AIDS research assumes the powerful influence of the gay community in shaping policy. Recently, PLWH/As have become crucial, particularly in the community-based sector. This political & sociological study analyses the relationship between two interweaving social movements - the gay and PLWH/A movements, focusing on the dynamics and methods sought in resolving conflicts between these movements. Practical experience comes from the authors' terms as manager of a regional community-based HIV/AIDS education program and as member of the national PLWH/A executive. Results: Social Movement theory is able to illuminate the instrumental/expressive dichotomy apparent in the gay and PLWH/A movements - the push for formal institutional reform versus more external, symbolic challenges. While both movements have effectively assimilated these tendencies, they are also the primary source of tension within and between movements. Struggles around representation are often exacerbated by the state's growing inclination to adopt corporatist modes of negotiation. Lessons Learned: The emergence of a powerful PLWH/A social movement affects significant implications for representation and legitimacy in fashioning a contemporary response to the HIV/AIDS epidemic. While the gay movement has borne the brunt of these arguments, the implications are relevant for policy makers, service providers, and researchers alike.
Publication Types:
Keywords:
- Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome
- Developed Countries
- Disease Outbreaks
- Family
- HIV Infections
- HIV Seropositivity
- Health Education
- Homosexuality, Male
- Male
- Public Policy
- Social Behavior
- Socioeconomic Factors
Other ID:
UI: 102221838
From Meeting Abstracts