The New York Blade may have reprinted an old interview, but that doesn't mean they're all bad. Consider this article on the rise of HIV in black communities. Sure, it's a topic that comes up often (as it should), but never fails to add a new dimension to a complex problem. For example, how can organizations curb the rise of HIV in black communities without perpetuating negative stereotypes. More importantly, how can bridges be built between groups with a common enemy?

With regard to the controversial Los Angeles "HIV is a Gay Disease" ad campaign, National Institute of Allergy & Infectious Diseases director Anthony Fauci wonders if universal ad campaigns actually hinder the fight.

If we drop back and say that the answer to stigma is to not point out the people who really need most the kinds of things that we’ve been talking about, I don’t think you’re going to substantially reduce stigma... But what you might do is take attention away from the people who really need the attention.

And the two groups that need the most attention are blacks and gays, say the experts.

[Phil] Wilson and [Jim] Key of the L.A. Gay & Lesbian Center agree that HIV/AIDS is both a black and gay disease, and the two groups must realize they are fighting a common enemy.

Of course, one of the biggest hurdles is raising awareness within black communities, a daunting task for anyone, regardless of sexual orienation or race. Are you up for the challenge? We certainly hope so, becaue we need all the help we can get.