AIDS Epidemic Begins

AIDS Epidemic Begins
1981

Cut to 1981 and the AIDS Epidemic ravages the country.

Florida's response was about as coordinated as a group of spring breakers on South Beach.

In response to the stigma and discrimination faced by those with HIV/AIDS, Florida thankfully passed laws in 1986 to protect infected employees and shield HIV-positive children in schools.

The red ribbon became the symbol of AIDS awareness in 1991.

By 1992
AIDS had become the leading cause of death for U.S. men aged 25-44, and by 1994, it was the top cause of death for all Americans in that age group, regardless of sexuality—affecting both straight and LGBTQ+ communities alike.

Florida ranked among the states with the highest HIV/AIDS infection rates since the epidemic began, ranking third in the nation for infections in 1992.

But you know what's amazing?
Despite the chaos,
the LGBTQ+ community in Florida rallied like never before.

They organized, protested, and fought for their rights as if their lives depended on it—
because they did.

Several AIDS-related foundations popped up around the state:

Tampa Aids Network 1986

They provided resources and services for people with HIV/AIDS in Tampa. They were a prominent AIDS resource in Tampa Bay and merged with Gulf Coast Jewish Family Services's Gulf Coast Community Care division in 2002.

CAN Commmunity Health 1991

CAN Community Health started as a small clinic in Sarasota, FL, founded by Susan Terry. It's now a national healthcare organization helping people with HIV, STDs, and Viral Hepatitis.

Metro Inclusive Health 1992

They started helping the HIV-positive community in Tampa Bay through King of Peace Church in 1982. In 1993, they established Metropolitan Charities to expand their services. Now called Metro Inclusive Health, they offer inclusive health and wellness services that support everyone in our community.

1982

Tampa's First Pride

Tampa's First Pride