Dear Queerty: US Ban On HIV+, Pt. II

These stories are breaking our hearts. Read on:

Dear Queerty:

Thanks for publishing the piece about the temporary repeal of the HIV+ person’s travel ban to the U.S. for the Chicago Gay Games.

As a Canadian who is HIV+ and has relatives now living in the U.S. (Texas), I would like to travel south to your country to visit them – but cannot. In order to have even a regular temporary visit, I would have to apply to the Department Of Homeland Security for a special waiver, which would only be granted, possibly, for medical reasons. In short, no dice.

This law has been in effect for years, ever since George Bush Sr. signed it into law. It amazes me that after all this time, a great percentage of gay people in the U.S. do not seem to be aware of it’s existence. It’s a mean-spirited, punitive law that protects and benefits no-one. I have not been able to travel to visit the U.S. for years, and in the current political climate, would not dare to.

I look forward to the day when myself and all other HIV+ people – gay, lesbia, trans, straight – can visit your country in peace and safety.

Sincerely,
James H
Toronto, ON, Canada

Where have we been? Why haven’t we heard more about this? We are now collecting these stories; if you are in a similar situation, please email holla@queerty . com, so we may learn of your plight.

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