Francisco's HIV Policy Priorities: Tips for Community Engagement and Equity

Francisco Ruiz , MS , and Kaye Hayes , MPA , recently discussed Francisco 's HIV policy priorities as the Director of the White House Office of National AIDS Policy ( ONAP ) . It has been three months since Francisco 's appointment , and they delved into his vision for ONAP , emphasizing the importance of community engagement and equity in policy development . Francisco highlighted three main priorities : centering the science , accelerating HIV efforts , and emphasizing the humanity of the work.

In a video conversation , Francisco expressed the significance of community voices in shaping ONAP 's policies . He stressed the need to prioritize equity and ensure that everyone is included in the journey towards ending the HIV / AIDS epidemic . Francisco 's message to HIV.gov listeners focused on the human aspect of the work , beyond just scientific advancements . He emphasized the importance of addressing issues like stigma and discrimination collectively and holistically.

Looking ahead , Francisco encouraged celebrating successes , finding joy in the work , and supporting each other in the fight against HIV / AIDS . He urged the HIV community to continue working towards a common goal and to remember the reasons behind their efforts . Kaye Hayes , HHS Deputy Assistant Secretary for Infectious Disease , praised Francisco 's commitment to inclusivity and community engagement in his role at ONAP . She highlighted the importance of recognizing the multifaceted challenges of HIV / AIDS and addressing them with a comprehensive approach.

As Francisco 's tenure progresses , it is crucial for stakeholders to stay informed about his priorities and initiatives . The Office of National AIDS Policy plays a pivotal role in shaping the nation 's response to HIV / AIDS , and Francisco 's leadership will be instrumental in driving progress in this area . By prioritizing community engagement , equity , and compassion in policy development , Francisco aims to create a more inclusive and effective approach to combating HIV / AIDS . Stay tuned for updates on Francisco 's work and the ongoing efforts to end the HIV / AIDS epidemic.