HIV: Pathway to Progress

In this special episode of Pathway to Progress, we revisit some of the most powerful moments from our previous 11 conversations, featuring insightful pieces of wisdom from leading HIV advocates and public health experts.

From decriminalization to challenging stigma, these highlights showcase the dynamic efforts being made to reshape our medical systems and society into one that is equitable for all—regardless of HIV status. Join us ...

In Episode 11 of Pathway to Progress, we’re joined by Kytara Epps, Public Health and Advocacy Strategist at the Center for HIV Law & Policy. Kytara, a passionate public health practitioner, discusses her work at the intersection of reproductive health and HIV advocacy today. She explores the evolving role of public health practices, how innovative forms of activism not only challenge HIV stigma but pushes the fight for decrimin...

In Episode 10 of Pathway to Progress, we’re joined by Dr. Sarah A. Schmalzle, Medical Director of the THRIVE Program at the Institute of Human Virology, University of Maryland School of Medicine. Dr. Schmalzle discusses the medical industry's response to the HIV epidemic, the importance of healthcare professionals in breaking down barriers, and the disproportionate impact of HIV criminalization and stigma on marginalized commu...

In Episode 9 of Pathway to Progress, we’re joined by Melanie Reese, Executive Director of Older Women Embracing Life (OWEL) and constant collaborator at the SERO Project. Melanie has dedicated her career to supporting those living with HIV/AIDS, helping them live full, productive, and joyful lives. In this conversation, Melanie shares her personal journey of being diagnosed with HIV and how her experiences with stigma and discrimin...

In Episode 8 of HIV: Pathway to Progress, we explore the crucial role HIV advocates and medical providers play in building inclusive, supportive communities for LGBTQ+ and BIPOC individuals. Recorded during our Pathway to Progress Symposium, this panel brings together leaders from ViiV Healthcare, AIDS United, Safe Haven Therapy Services, The Center of Black Equity, Capital Ballroom Council, and The House of Balenciaga.

The panelist...

In Episode 7 of HIV: Pathway to Progress, we focus on the critical role healthcare providers play in ensuring access to vital resources for communities most impacted by HIV. Recorded during our Pathway to Progress Symposium, this panel discussion brings together experts from the Pride Center of Baltimore, Chase Brexton, the Health Department of Baltimore City, and Heart to Hand, Inc.

The panelists share their experiences in providin...

In Episode 6 of HIV: Pathway to Progress, we bring you a powerful panel discussion recorded during our Pathway to Progress Symposium. This conversation centers on the fight for HIV decriminalization, featuring experts from the Equality Federation, Center for HIV Law and Policy, Older Women Embracing Life, and FreeState Justice.

The panelists dive into what it’s like to advocate for HIV decriminalization on both personal and professi...

In Episode 5 of HIV: Pathway to Progress, we bring you a powerful panel discussion recorded during our Pathway to Progress event held in Maryland last month. Experts from Total Healthcare Baltimore, Chase Brexton, the Human Rights Campaign, Gilead, and FreeState Justice join us to dive deep into the world of HIV prevention, PrEP, PEP, and beyond.

In this conversation, professionals on the frontlines share insights into the urgent ne...

In Episode 4 of Pathway to Progress, we’re joined by Mike Elizabeth, Director of Public Health Policy at Equality Federation. Mike works at the intersection of LGBTQ+ advocacy and public health, helping policymakers implement inclusive policies that improve health outcomes for LGBTQ+ communities and push for HIV prevention. In this conversation, Mike shares how they collaborate with local organizations to amplify their advocacy eff...

In Episode 3: Navigating HIV & Incarceration (Part 2), we continue our conversation with Kerry Thomas, Community Decriminalization Strategist at The SERO Project. After serving 15 years in prison due to HIV criminalization laws, Kerry used his time behind bars to deepen his understanding of the legal system, turning the knowledge he gained from this experience into a powerful tool for advocacy.

In this episode, Kerry delves into...

In Episode 3: Navigating HIV & Incarceration, we’re joined by Kerry Thomas, Community Decriminalization Strategist at The SERO Project, for a powerful conversation about his personal journey and the fight for HIV decriminalization. Kerry served 15 years in prison due to HIV criminalization laws, and during his incarceration, he became a vocal advocate. He collaborated with outreach organizations, engaged with the media, and wor...

In the second episode of Pathway to Progress, FreeState Justice Executive Director Phillip Westry and Victims Advocate Coordinator Nina Ovian sit down with Robert Suttle, an advocate directly impacted by the criminalization of HIV. Listen in as the trio discusses the intersection of HIV, Criminalization, and Race, exploring the history of HIV in the U.S. and how stigma and discriminatory laws continue to affect marginalized communi...

FreeState Justice Executive Director Phillip Westry and Victims Advocate Coordinator Nina Ovian sit down with Jada Hicks, Senior Attorney at the Center for HIV Law & Policy. Listen in as the trio discusses the history of HIV in the U.S. and the stigmas that led to its criminalization. Then stick around till the end to learn about the amazing work Hicks sees from advocates fighting for decriminalization and what keeps her ground...

Welcome to Pathway to Progress, a podcast dedicated to the fight for HIV justice and decriminalization across the country. Hosted by Phillip Westry, Executive Director of FreeState Justice, each episode features insightful conversations with a rotating panel of co-hosts and expert guests. Together, they explore the history of HIV in the U.S., the ongoing challenges of HIV criminalization, and the bold actions being taken to create ...