The Mighty Swirl Continues: Citizen ROAR and Rage!

Medicaid Expansion A Go-Go: The Call to Action

 

It happened it again. Another disappointing "NO" vote in the latest round of balloting for the
embattled Medicaid Expansion measure. An additional two more supporters were lost from that magic number of 75 needed to get this passed. So what to do? Its time for do what other "mad as hell and we are not going take it anymore" citizen should do...march on the capitol to let what has become known as the "cruelty caucus" that we are the boss of them! It's going down, Monday (2/24/14), 11- 1pm on the steps of the Capitol. (500 Woodlane Drive in downtown Little Rock)

In the meantime, let's make sure you understand what's at stake. Arkansas was the first state given federal approval to use Medicaid funds to purchase private insurance for the newly eligible under the health law. More than 87,000 people in Arkansas have been enrolled in the program, and several other states are pursuing or exploring similar plans. If there is no reauthorization not only will this basically leave a gapping hole of some $87 Million dollars in the states budget but will cripple the Department of Human Services. In a nut shell, folks be damned, go find you some insurance you can afford or health care access if you can. Ain't nobody got time for that!

COP 24/7 has no doubt that there will be some back room dealing as already taking place with Sen. Jane English, who had voted against the private option last year, announced that she would support the program's funding in exchange for changes to the state's workforce training program. She got her way, now who's next and what else will have to be placed on the alter to make this thing work. No matter the wheeling and dealing of politico's playing politics with individuals lives, here's what you can do:

1. Share this post and subscribe to CorneliusOnpoint!

2. Carpool with others from your area or offer gift cards, mileage reimbursement or donate cash.

3. Call and email the Senate Nine!

4. Volunteer to tell your story by contacting one of the hosts of this event.

5. Bring your signs! (no sticks are allowed on Capitol grounds.)

6. Express your discontent with these NINE!

7. Encourage folks to participate on all levels.

If these are your elected officials, reach out and touch these naysayers and often!

Senator Missy Irvin (R)
870-269-2703 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 870-269-2703 FREE  end_of_the_skype_highlighting
Missy.Irvin@senate.ar.gov



 Senator Alan Clark (R)
501-262-3360 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 501-262-3360 FREE  end_of_the_skype_highlighting
alan.clark@senate.ar.gov

Senator Cecile Bledsoe (R)
479-636-2115 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 479-636-2115 FREE  end_of_the_skype_highlighting
Cecile.Bledsoe@senate.ar.gov

Senator Jane English (R)
501-257-7670 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 501-257-7670 FREE  end_of_the_skype_highlighting
jane.english@senate.ar.gov

Senator Jim Hendren (R)
479-787-6222 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 479-787-6222 FREE  end_of_the_skype_highlighting
jim.hendren@senate.ar.gov

Senator Bart Hester (R)
479-531-4176 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 479-531-4176 FREE  end_of_the_skype_highlighting
bart.hester@senate.ar.gov

Senator Bryan King (R)
870-438-4565 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 870-438-4565 FREE  end_of_the_skype_highlighting
bryan.king@senate.ar.gov

Senator Gary Stubblefield (R)
479-635-4314 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 479-635-4314 FREE  end_of_the_skype_highlighting
gary.stubblefield@senate.ar.gov

Senator John Cooper (R)
870-761-0130 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting 870-761-0130 FREE  end_of_the_skype_highlighting
john.cooper@senate.ar.gov
 

COP 24/7 Mighty Swirl Part 2

Private Option A-Go-Go: Next Steps

As I prepared this post, the news broke that a faction of Arkansas' legislature had prevailed with defeating funding the state's Medicaid expansion portion of the Affordable Care Act mandate. What this means is the fact that if this measure is not successfully defended and implemented, all those who were to be served by the expansion will simply loose their coverage. The measure fell short of five votes of the needed 75 necessary to reauthorize the private option that would utilize federal dollar to purchase private insurance products. Let's hope that we don't have to hit the "We're Crazy" button again!

This state move to forefront of  he nation with this innovative funding option in which many other governing bodies across the country seeking to follow our led, however it now seems that a few legislators intend play politics with the lives of more than a 100,000 who could be enrolled. The idea mindset's and explanations are stuff that you just can't make up. For instance, Rep. Nate Bell, an
outspoken critic of Obamacare and the private option—wrote one of the amendments to the original plan, which prohibits state funds from going to outreach or promotion of any part of the health care law. Yes this lawmaker wanted to make sure that anyone interested would not get educated about it or hear about it?

He goes further by saying, "I believe it's important as a conservative that we recognize the situation we're in," he said. "When we can defeat bad policy, we should do so. When we can't defeat bad policy, it's our responsibility to do everything we can to influence it and make it as closely aligned with our philosophy and policy as we can." This is where COP 24/7 would like to know is that philosophy to keep ER rooms full and other's out of care or without access?

 

The private option is beholden to annual reauthorization, as part of the state's budget for Department of Human Services, which runs Medicaid. Bell warns against reaching a budget standstill, and argues that the Legislature is at an "impasse" without enough votes on either side to approve or kill the private option without changes. Just to clear, there's been talk of holding up various agencies including DHS's budget to defeat the expansion.

 

Arkansas's high vote threshold for spending bills makes the annual renewal of funding a persistent challenge: The state requires a three-quarters approval for passage—75 votes out of 100 in the House and 27 out of 35 in the Senate. Because of the razor-thin margin the first time around, the shift of just a few legislators in the Senate last month brought the future of the program into question ahead of this week's votes.

 

Ladies and Gentlemen and all those who haven't decided, this is you Call to Action if you believe that Arkansan's deserve to get access to affordable care and every effort should be made to keep Medicaid Expansion moving forward.

HUMANA OFFERING NEW FINANCIAL BENEFIT ON MISSISSIPPI EXCHANGE

Humana intends to offer a new incentive for Obamacare exchange enrollees in Mississippi who see a doctor by the end of June. The company will waive copays for any non-preventive doctor visit in the first few months of coverage, a nod to the state’s high rate of health problems and an attempt to get previously uninsured people engaged in their health care — often for the first time.

It’s unclear if Humana’s only competitor on Mississippi’s exchange, Magnolia, intends to offer a similar benefits. But it’s part of a concerted campaign to drive up Mississippi’s enrollment numbers by the March 31 sign-up deadline. http://politi.co/1bLxsDP  In full disclosure, I have a Humana Insurance product and although I encourage individuals to do their do diligence when choosing a plan, I have enjoyed the benefit of getting my selection of gift card incentives in order to keep my health goals and make targeted appointments.

Although this practice has been used in the HIV testing arena, but the component is becoming a fast growing trend in the tool box of prevention as treatment. My Humana experience has not only included those great incentives, but also has provided me with...are you ready? A house call from a real Doctor! I was totally overwhelmed when my own visiting M.D. showed up at my door, white coat and all. He told me that he wanted to add an additional layer of understanding my health needs, outlooks and possible shortfalls in my overall coverage.

Wow, I thought, as we proceeded with basic health questions, blood pressure check and summary of our visit. If that was not enough, my coverage also includes access to Urgent Care at my local Concentra Care Center. I've used this facility recently in a fluke situation that require some quick action from the presiding physician. While in their care, I got "one stop" shopping for my needs including x-rays', labs, prescription services and an appointment for follow up if needed.

And get this, they called a few day later to make sure that the services I had received met my expectations. Talk about customer service when you need it. Plus as an added value item, I also added some dental coverage to round out my medical package to keep my ticking even when I give myself a tough licking of a schedule.  So, as the back and forth about accessing health care goes on, I'll do what I can to keep my Humana with hopes that all will have suitable insurance coverage that they find affordable. Keep up the good work Humana!


Save the Date!!

 

Tuesday Take Out

Private Option A-Go-Go!

I know that for many of you, just trying to get the correct "skinny" on just what the hell is that insurance thing all about and why in the heck are they asking me to "get in." has been challenging.
Yes, I've listened to many of you wax on about its not affordable for you, didn't see nothing that you liked, or how you will succumb to this latest Obama driven socialist plot.  I got it already.

However the real fact of the matter is that this is a law that was created several years ago and it would behoove you to make sure you understand what's really going on. Case in point, if you have actually moved forward as a recipient of the Medicaid expansion portion, you need to listen up as policy makers are back in town with a cross hair on the back of the private option.

Just as a refresher, the private option, which provides federally funded private health insurance for roughly 100,000 Arkansans, narrowly won legislative approval in 2013, the year it was created. This was the "expansion" of the ACA in which many of the current lawmakers are just not too keen on allowing adults with incomes of up to 138 percent of the poverty level - $15,860 for an individual or $32,500 for a family of four to maintain any insurance access. Did you get that?

In the meantime, there's all kind of big crazy talk going on up at the Capitol such as two compromise amendments to the private-option bill, one that would eliminate spending on advertising, and one that would eliminate the private-option program on Feb. 1, 2015, if the federal government does not approve several waivers.

I realize that this insurance thing has some folks foot stomping mad, but for those who haven't seen doctors in years, need to deal with pre-existing conditions or may need to deal with that chronic disease, COP 24/7 high urges you to take notice of your policy maker and make haste to let them know how you feel about the situation. If you need direct enrollment assistance or additional information feel free to contact 349-7777 to get the latest updated information.

NBJC Seeks Emerging Leaders

The National Black Justice Coalition, in partnership with the National Gay and Lesbian Task Force and the Human Rights Campaign, invites individuals to participate in the Black LGBT Emerging Leaders Day on Friday, February 21, 2014. This is an opportunity to participate in facilitated conversations led by federal public policy experts in designated subject matter areas such as: economic security and justice; health and wellness; youth empowerment; education; and veterans' affairs. Join us to learn more about the White House's commitment to equal rights for all Americans and the important steps President Obama's administration has taken to ensure health, well-being, security, justice and equality for LGBT Americans, especially people of color.

 

At this briefing, you will have the opportunity to Bring Voice, Build Networks and Take Action:

• Interact directly with public policy experts and senior Obama Administration officials who will discuss important LGBT public policy updates related to criminal justice, health and wellness, and recent landmark judicial cases;
• Identify opportunities to collaborate with LGBT organizations in breakout sessions;
• Participate in a listening session with the White House Initiative on Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs);
• Provide candid and constructive feedback to White House and federal agency staff; and
• Get engaged with upcoming White House outreach efforts to black, LGBT, youth and faith-based communities.

Priority will be given to emerging leaders, ages 18-30, to attend.

 

If you are interested in attending or sponsoring an emerging leader to attend this event, CLICK HERE as spots are limited.  

 

For questions, comments or concerns contact us at events@nbjc.org.  

 

 

 

 

The MIghty Swirl of COP 24/7

Keeping it Onpoint from A to Z

"Neither rain nor snow, nor sleet nor dark of night shall stay these couriers from the swift completion of their appointed rounds," is the U.S. Postman creed that they live by and from what the last 72 hours have dealt, I wasn't sure if this forum could live up to that standard. However, as circumstances would have it, you just can't keep a brother down when there's simply too much going on that demands his attention.

With that said, this post which is our 1186 since our inception will dive head first into the "mighty swirl" of e-mails, websites, Facebook postings and all three rings of the information circus loop. I never know what will make the cut, but I do know that you just can't make this stuff up! Are you ready, let's dive in...!


Strange Fruit 2014


Like everyone else, I waited with baited breathe as the latest verdict would be announced in the "Loud Music" murder trail came in. I learned that my friend Wyatt Evans was actually do a "play by play" live feed post on Facebook not to mention the "breaking news" across the TV spectrum.

It was the CNN coverage helmed by Don Lemmon that broke the news that "The jury in the case of Michael Dunn found him guilty on four charges, including three of attempted second-degree murder, but they couldn't reach a verdict on the most significant charge -- first-degree murder in the death of 17-year-old Jordan Davis. The decision came on the eve of what would have been Davis' 19th birthday. What? A hung jury!? No way, right!?

Although astonished at this news, its apparent this young man joined a long list of Black individuals who have become the "strange fruit" of our day as recollected by Mr. Kevin Dedner whom made mention of the Billie Holiday tune that spoke to the "strange fruit" of Black men hanging from trees in the south without justice.

According to a 2002 story by Peter Daniels on the World Socialist Web Site, "There were, by conservative estimates, at least 4,000 lynchings in the half century before 1940, the vast majority in the South, with most of the victims black. There was little outcry over these pogrom-like activities. Socialists and communists were in the forefront of the struggle against lynchings."

Even though most of that activity was soundly condemned at that time, we can't help but ponder the "strange fruit" in the guise of  much more recent expressions of racist brutality, such as the attack on Abner Louima in Brooklyn, and the case of Mumia Abu-Jamal, Trayvon Martin and now Jordan Davis.

As violence continues in our society, what should we think about the "strange fruit," of the countless transgender women of color including local personality Alexis Fairchild who were murdered without resolve or arrest.

We can't forget Matthew Shepard, the victim of an anti-gay lynching in Laramie, Wyoming in 1998; of Jasper, Texas, the scene of the brutal killing of James Byrd by racists; and of a sign that were brazenly displayed in the aftermath of the September 11 attacks, declaring “Kill Muslims Now.” 

Are we to believe that Black youth 13-24 dealing with dual infections of Syphilis and HIV are among this same "strange fruit," that will be apart of the harvest that will be left untreated, not valued and left to rot in the fields.

There's so much more to all of this and one post just can't cover it all. In the coming weeks we will continue to explore the who, why and what will it take to demand more comprehensive action instead of knee jerk reaction. Your observations, comments and solutions are encouraged to be apart of this spirited dialog.
 

The VD Post

New Anthology Project Planned

A new anthology project is in the drawing board stream which will seek original content ranging from prose to essay concerning personal lived experiences in relation to all aspects of an individuals LGBTQI
journey.

The project will continue to explore the multi layering of same gender loving men and women and the daily impact of such issues of coming out, homophobia, intimate partner violence, gender identity, long term partnership and assorted sub culture myths that are often languish in misinformation.

COP 24/7 has been approached to serve as Executive Editor of the as yet un-named project once additional funding details have been affirmed. This platforms is enthusiastic and excited at the forward motion of the project and will be updating as decision are concluded. Currently COP 24/7 will begin formulating submission criteria, coordinating subject matter areas and announcing deadlines. Please stay tuned to this platform as well as on our new Facebook page (www.facebook.com/corneliusonpoint ) Don't forget to "like" our page!


Partnering 101: So What does Love have to Do with It?

Its another Valentine's Day where folks are bouncing about among the various street vendors, flower shops and any other business caught up in the day love dash to show your affection or devotion to that special some one. Every year I watch this dizzying array of gift baskets, teddy bears and candy filled boxes paraded to offices and home door steps in that attempt to ultimately say "I Love You." Certainly I've done my share and had my share of this gift giving madness as part of my complex 17 year relationship.

Throughout your coupling you often find yourself equating the success of your relationship based on the premise of  you are suppose to or have to do all of this to prove your love. To be honest, I enjoyed it and have no actual problem with it, since it was the arrival of a vase with a dozen of red roses that started it all back in 1997.

I don't tend to go on about what I've achieved in the relation department but rather what I continue to hear from many of you who are from one extreme, "bitter party of one," "caught up in one night love affairs" or trying to mange that "he, she and me drama" that can be a total mother trifecta when there also kids involved.  What I had to learn and many often don't in trying to have a successful relationship is the fact that sharing your life space requires some serious work.

Personal Empowerment guru Iyanla Vanzant (www.iyanla.com ) counsels couples on her hit cable show on OWN, call "Iyanla: Fix My Life" in which boldly tells couples to "do your work!" I concur that I learned that before her prime time hit, but Vanzant demands that we fully understand that the "love" we seek begins within each of us "doing the work," before we can have a loving relationship.

Its important that you realize if you have not "fixed" yourself before your bring someone into your loving space and then try to "fix" them to suit your needs. Having an adult relationship requires much give and take, sacrifice, endurance, truth and accepting who you have chosen to share life as they are because they came that way when you decided to be a couple. If they are liars, cheaters, leeches or manipulators, then you can almost count on it that this leopard will not changes their spots! 

I find it interesting as I keep watching the calls for marriage equality that I witness so many relationship melt downs, weekly break-up's and "90 day anniversary's," with your latest love interest. Of course what has worked for me, may not be a solution for you, however, fully understanding all aspects of "making house" can be thoroughly challenging as well as gratifying. Consequently one must always know that you can "drop that zero and get you a hero."

On this V Day, it is my wish that those who decide to stop for love, find that special someone who will respect your spirit, soul and body. There's nothing more beautiful than discovering a partner who will be there in triumph and during tragedy. I have been extremely fortunate to have shared my life with a partner who has seen me at my personal best yet dealing with me when  being human was not always pretty.

As the years have passed, the flowers have stopped but we've concluded that having a budding relationship brings about the flowers that no florist can deliver. As you possibly await your door bell to ring or for something to show up at the office because you anticipate that they will follow through.  Don't forget that you have to "do your work" to get to that loving space that Vanzant states is being "at peace and not in pieces." Go forth and find love!
 

Eyes Open Wickedly Wide Part 2

Not Getting it Twisted: Black HIV AIDS Awareness Day 2014

I am my brother's and sister's keeper. That was the theme of the 14th annual National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, and the Know Now Reunion Reception took flight even as the forecasted "dusting" turned out to be more that we bargain for as well as the rest of the city for that matter.

 I fully appreciated those who came undeterred and open to recognizing the day where there were there were only a thimble full of other events scheduled to recognize the awareness day.

 In the meantime, as I moved forward with assisting the members of STRILITE in organizing, to our rancor and amazement the Arkansas Department of Health objected to the usage of the their Know Now campaign in regards to the event. This is where you should be saying, "say what?"

To my utter amazement and indignant rancor, I pointed out to these folks that this 2 year old, $150,000 dollar train wreck went from the original which featured "stock" photo's with little to no cultural sensitivity which got a rebuffed with a counter "Know Not" counter campaign from the members of STRILITE who felt that chosen images didn't resonate nor address that statistically this chronic disease was undeniably disproportionate among Black gay men 13-24. Nevertheless, it is fully understood HIV does not discriminate by race, class, locale or culture. Regardless of our race, many of us may know someone who is or was infected with HIV, especially considering that one in five Americans infected with HIV are unaware they have it. 

Furthermore there re-boot or second phase as they touted used local contacts of the STRILITE group to be featured as models. The significance of this is the fact that prior to this, no local men of color had been prominently featured in a campaign. Also the retained agency openly confirmed that they did not have "access" to such models and enlisted the help of the group.

Our premise was two fold, to reunite these models who were courageous enough to be used in such a campaign despite any possible stigma or homophobia that they might encounter. This milestone was simply overlooked by ADH although there was simple acknowledgement during a then Community Planning Group meeting. The models got no further recognition from ADH, no payment or incentive for their services and not even a framed copy of their respective poster. That's right folks, they got zip O!

However, ADH took exception with a Facebook event page despite the actual poster being disseminated for usage as part of their failed roll out that was to include a statewide distribution.
Even more glaring was the fact that they cited that using their material in relation to a bar was setting was inappropriate.

Yet I found evidence that the Know Now campaign was submitted for a 2013
NPH Excellence Award in which they clearly state not once but twice that the "campaign would be used in bars and bathhouses."  Yes, bathhouses in Little Rock?  That's a whole another story in itself.

I would like to again personally thank the management and crew of 610 lounge who expressed that they were unaware that Black HIV AIDS Day even existed and sought to embrace the idea from the word go. They added they had never seen the Know Now campaign and had no knowledge as to its meaning or use until being educated by myself.

Thank you event producer, Mr. Gregory May who called me after learning about the event and stated that he wanted to donate table linens and any other items needed because he was aware of my various collaborations around this health dilemma. Big shout out to Mr. John M. and O. C. whom expressed their pride in my taking a leadership role and how they felt connected despite their inability to be out front.

And finally thank you Mr. Shon D. who shared with me that I was his hero and has made himself a ready volunteer with aspirations to do more because he said "if you can then why can't I?"

Further I would like to thank the countless folks of all races who expressed to me how they feel I have impacted their lives from mentor to life coach using this work as a catalyst to decrease infection rates while increasing the information viral load of the community.  I can't tell you how your calls e-mail, personal interactions and even your Facebook "attaboy's" have touch me and often times fuel me to keep asking the hard questions while attempting to advocate on your behalf.

To the many who have shared with me your status, challenges, terrors and observations around the issues of HIV and AIDS, I applaud you and continue to encourage you to become empowered via updated information and not skewed facts or notions that somehow recognizing Black HIV Awareness Day is for Black people, it is not and never has, but rather simply a day in which I unapologetically believe must continue as a tool of the end game of HIV and AIDS in the Black community.

The work goes on, the struggles continues and celebrating our uniqueness or the diversity within it should not be a question but a deciding moment to be keenly aware that we are all are living affected by HIV and AIDS.
 

The Dial UP and OUT Issues Post

Hofstra University Recruiting Gay Men and Women Living with HIV for Research Study

Hofstra University is recruiting study participants to be part of a research project that will help researchers expand the knowledge of how people living with HIV can utilize a variety of tools to
manage HIV disease. Previous studies have shown that managing HIV disease can greatly impact health outcomes. However, there have been few studies conducted in the US to understand how gay men and women living with HIV experience stress, access support, and interact with medical care from their point of view.

People living with HIV Eligibility Requirements:

• At least 18 years old
• Have access to Skype
• English speaking
• Willing to be interviewed for 30-45 minutes over Skype
• Living in the US and its territories
• Identify as a gay man or a woman

Upon study completion, you will receive an online gift card (e.g., to Amazon) worth $50. Steps will be taken to protect your confidentiality and the information you provide. If you have additional questions about the study, please contact the study team at (516) 463-5955 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting (516) 463-5955 FREE  end_of_the_skype_highlighting or healthculture235@gmail.com.

Don't forget that open enrollment continues until March 31! If you need direct assistance or updated information on the Affordable Care Act, call 349-7777! A licensed guide will be available to meet with you by appointment or via the internet! Do it today and don't get left out!
 

Eyes Open Wickedly Wide

COP 24/7 :Reaching Upward and Outward

In our effort to stay on the cutting edge of the ever bending tech curve, this post contains our first magazine link featuring content from HIV Plus magazine!

This link will allow readers to view content  directly from the online version of the publication. You can get a great interactive view issuu.com/heremedia/docs/hiv_plus_99_march_april_2014_opt?e=0/6606214

Most interesting is the cover feature of Carlton Wilborn, motivational speaker and teacher who shares
his journey from sexual abuse to big time touring with Madonna in his book "Front and Center, How I Learned to Live There."

In the article he also talks open as well as candidly about dealing with HIV and his mission to empower individuals through his various presentations to both NPO's and in corporate settings.

Wilborn offers not only the current book but several other books and recordings on the "mind, body, soul" connection which can be found on his portal at www.livingfrontandcenter.com

COP 24/7 is always proud to share those same gender loving individuals who are always on the move to take their lives to the next level. If you know a person who needs to be celebrated or showcased, hit us up with a notice in our comment section or e-mail box!

Renegades Raising Funds for Equality

Save the Date, Friday Feb. 21 as the raging Renegades for a Cause keep doing what they do best in engaging local charity causes while mobilizing area entertainment in the process. Most sentimental about this outing is the fact that this will be the last fund raiser in the MK venue which will take the last stage out of dodge supposedly March 1.

According to organizers, this effort is being mounted due to what they say is "it was not Arkansas' turn" to access those high powered equality dollars donated by national entities.

COP 24/7 had a WTF moment as again Arkansas continues to get dissed, sliced and diced by those gay politico's and other lavender glitterati know it all's who seem think that they know what's best for everyone else. This forum takes the position that "no one know what's best for us but us!"

 For too long, many of this ilk continue to roll into town with fancy thoughts and expense accounts to pat us Arkies on the head and tell us our place. Enough already! Please will someone close the borders and stop paying for any more "gay experts" to come to town. We have plenty of talented individuals who could use all the per Diem's, honorariums and mileage reimbursement that would have more impact than any more big dollar folk who don't have a damn clue as to the who or what the hell is going on in this state. With that off my considerable chest, I urge our local LGBTQ community, allies and supporters to mobilize around strategies to fund community based organizations and other entities including this platform that have been dedicated to answering the advocacy call.

It is paramount to understand that we are seriously lacking on infrastructure that is common place in other metro areas. Such as equality centers, gay oriented health clinics, political action committee's and venues where we can do what we damn well please without dealing with lots of bullshit. Either we drive the bus or watch the bus back over us. Think about it! If you can't make it out and then send your donation, volunteer your time or do whatever you can do to help make a different.


Come Follow the information leader by subscribing today! So what are you waiting for, do it now!

Need affordable insurance information call 349-7777 to get enrolled before March 31, 2014!  We are here to help!!

Celebrating A Diverse History and More

Looking Back, Moving Forward: Black History Month 2014

Welcome to Black History Month 2014!  Did you say what that all about? Well this year's month long theme is "Civil Rights in America,"  chronicling the important milestones by African-Americans and others in the battle for civil rights and equal treatment under the law. And now for the history lesson that COP 24/7 often like to share with our readers and visitors.

Black History Month began in 1926 as part of an initiative by writer and educator Dr. Carter G. Woodson who launched Negro History Week in 1926.

 

Woodson proclaimed that Negro History Week should always occur in the second week of February —between the birthdays of Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln.

 

Since 1976, every American president has proclaimed February as Black History Month. Today, other countries such as Canada and the United Kingdom also devote an entire month to celebrating black history. Now that you've got that, lets now get it twisted. Black History Month is for everyone and anybody open to educating themselves to culture, contributions and conditions in which Black people have endured as well as thrived.

 

As history buff, I have spent many hours making the connection to those who were forced from the African continent into a dehumanizing system of slavery in which they were consider human chattel. The spectrum of achievement and accomplishments since then has soared from all corners of the nation with the ultimate pinnacle culminating in the two term election President Barack H. Obama. Unfortunately as we celebrate our tremendous strides, it is no secret that the Black community continues to suffer societal disparities including rampant internal "Black and Black" crime, education challenges, urban blight and continuing STI/ HIV/AIDS infections among Black youth 12-24.

 

Yet from all that I've learned about the Black American experience ranging from myself being a descendant of slaves to my standing face to face with the Emancipation document that was exhibited at the Clinton Center or my April returning trip to meet my Capitol Hill Representative concerning  HIV/ AIDS for AIDS Watch, I am proud to have not only witnessed history but did my part to add my thread to great tapestry that tells the story of from then to now. I am determined to leave a legacy of service to all that I touch, communicate and empower to be the best that they can be too!

 

 

Coming OUT History Continues

 

Not a minute to too soon, Hitchcock, Texas, native, Michael Sam made his watershed announcement via interviews with ESPN and the Times that were published simultaneously Sunday night.

He said he went public now in part because many seemed aware of his sexual orientation at the Senior Bowl two weeks ago.

"I didn't realize how many people actually knew, and I was afraid that someone would tell or leak something out about me," Sam told ESPN. "I want to own my truth. ... No one else should tell my story but me."
He celebrated in advance by having dinner Saturday with a group that included former NFL running back Dave Kopay, who was one of the first ex-players to come out as gay, and former punter Chris Kluwe and linebacker Brendon Ayanbadejo, who both have been outspoken in their support of gay rights.

Sam joins an emerging legion of Black Athletes such as basketball player Jason Collins, and most recently WWE wrestler, Darrin Young (pictured) who have taken a leap of faith to stand in their truth.

As we celebrated Black History Month, these Black gay men are vital in demonstrating to others that you can be truly be all you can be by naming it and claiming it. Big props to these guys and all who move forward living their same gender loving lives out loud! Salute my brothers!!

NEED Affordable Insurance Information? Call 349-7777 to get assistance and the latest updated information. Don't forget to come like our new Facebook page at www.facebook,com/corneliusonpoint ! Do It today!!!!

 

Black HIV Awareness Day 2014: Still Roaring OUT Loud

Editors Note: This item is a final in our content series around the issues and challenges concerning people of color communities in recognition of Black HIV AIDS Awareness Day. COP 24/7 has been an ardent and steadfast ally while staying on point about this ongoing health dilemma. Although
some continue to question the usage of ethnic distinctions, I support the premise of this piece as well as the fact that "African Americans face the most severe burden of HIV and AIDS in the United States" No matter what hue, shade or physical characteristics, it vitally important that passive action, homophobic attitudes, stigma and sheer ignorance in the Black community must not continue to allow "silence to equal death."

In an era of dynamic drug breakthroughs, Affordable Care Act including Arkansas' Medicaid expansion, Ryan White Policy changes, and the National HIV/ AIDS Strategy, this forum roars as to why there seems to be vapid public health response, inter-community disconnects and ebbing and flowing service gaps. COP 24/7 certainly applauds those providers, advocates and allies who have been moved to call out triumphs and tragedies over the past three decades.

This work has been courageous but we must not be lulled into a sense of complacency, being content with the status quo or cloaked in a disability status. But rather understand that the fight is simply not over if infection rates among our brother's and sisters go unchecked, unidentified  and or even denied as some in Black leadership have openly stated.  I urge the HIV/ AIDS community to know that retreating is not an option, instead we must become re-entrenched in efforts to educate and empower across the board.

Furthermore it is imperative that those living with HIV and AIDS also fully embrace aspects of personal responsibility in assembling the best medical team to suit your needs and accessing resources to increase quality of life issues ranging from skills training to gainful employment.  We stand with those individuals and urge a new wave of activist to demand that Arkansas gets in the game to be apart of the end game of HIV and AIDS! 

Sharpening Our Focus to Meet National Goals on National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day

by Timothy Harrison, Senior Policy Advisor, Office of National AIDS Policy

As we observe National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (NBHAAD) 2014, we are reminded that African Americans face the most severe burden of HIV/AIDS in the United States. Among African Americans, gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (Black MSM) are especially hard hit, representing more than half of all estimated new HIV infections among African Americans each year. A particularly disconcerting estimate in 2010 showed that young Black MSM aged 13 to 24 accounted for the greatest number (4,800) of estimated new HIV infections among African Americans.

Furthermore, from an analysis of data about African Americans diagnosed with HIV infection from 19 jurisdictions that CDC released yesterday, we know that compared to Black women, Black men — regardless of transmission category — have lower levels of linkage to and retention in HIV care and are less likely to have achieved viral suppression (i.e., have controlled the virus at a level that helps keep them healthy and reduces their risk of transmitting the virus to others). The study also revealed that by transmission category, men with infection attributed to male-to-male sexual contact had the lowest percentage of linkage to care.

These disparities highlight that, despite important strides that have been made toward national HIV prevention, care and treatment goals, we clearly have more work to do as a nation to effectively address HIV among Black MSM, especially with regard to outcomes along the HIV care continuum [PDF 1.9MB].

The National HIV/AIDS Strategy highlights both the disproportionate impact of HIV among MSM in the U.S., the concentration of HIV among Black MSM within the African American community, and clearly states that “the United States cannot reduce the number of HIV infections nationally without better addressing HIV among gay and bisexual men.” The Strategy also observes that our national commitment to this population has not always been commensurate with their disproportionate burden of HIV.

So, as we mark the annual observance of NBHAAD, we all—both individually and collectively—are called to be even more thoughtful, creative, and focused about actions we can undertake to strengthen HIV prevention, testing, care and treatment for Black MSM in communities across the United States.

Among federal programs, several important activities are underway in this regard:

• Increasing the capacity, quality, and effectiveness of HIV/AIDS service providers to serve Black MSM – Applications are due later this month for a new Resource/TA Center for HIV Prevention and Care for Black MSM being supported by HRSA’s HIV/AIDS Bureau. To assist HIV service and other healthcare providers, the new center will identify, compile, and disseminate best practices and effective models for HIV clinical care and treatment across the HIV care continuum for adult and young Black MSM ages 13 to 24.
• Promoting and supporting HIV testing among Black MSM – CDC’s Testing Makes Us Stronger social marketing campaign encourages Black MSM to get tested for HIV. Through compelling campaign ads in national magazines and on targeted websites, as well as through local advertising and materials distribution in target cities, CDC emphasizes the importance of getting tested for HIV regularly to help stop the spread of the epidemic. The campaign also includes a Facebook  page and a dedicated website with a suite of campaign materials available for individuals and organizations to download and distribute. Complementing this important outreach campaign, CDC makes significant investments in both health departments and community-based organizations to support high impact prevention activities, including testing.  
• Supporting engagement in HIV care – The HHS Office for Civil Rights’ Information is Powerful Medicine campaign focuses specifically on Black MSM, underscoring how having access to your medical records can help you better manage your health. Access to this information empowers patients to track their progress, monitor their lab results, communicate with their treatment teams, and adhere to their important treatment plans. The campaign also provides information on e-health tools, such as the “Blue Button,” which make it easier, safer, and faster for consumers to get access to their health information.
• Strengthening state efforts for Black MSM – Under the Care and Prevention and Prevention of HIV in the U.S. (CAPUS) demonstration project, several of the eight participating states are focusing their efforts specifically on Black MSM. The three-year demonstration project is supported by the Secretary’s Minority AIDS Initiative Fund and seeks to support these states, each with disproportionately high burdens of HIV/AIDS among minority communities, to improve HIV testing, engagement, and retention in care among racial and ethnic minorities. In Illinois, for example, the state health department has launched a youth of color-specific initiative in East St. Louis to co-locate medical (including LGBT health), psychosocial, prevention and support services in a single setting by collaborating with the local health department and community-based organizations in East St. Louis, Illinois and across the river in St. Louis, Missouri.
• Supporting Implementation Research – The focus of the ongoing NIH-supported HIV Prevention Trials Network (HPTN) 073  study is determining the willingness of Black MSM to use a daily antiretroviral pill as pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). Studies such as HPTN 073 are critical in bridging our understanding between biomedical advances in HIV prevention and behavioral, social and structural factors that are often in play. 

“We are greatly encouraged that many of these federal activities are consistent with recommendations made during our 2012 consultation with community leaders and federal partners about HIV among Black MSM,” notes Dr. Ronald Valdiserri, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Health, Infectious Diseases. “These efforts, and many more underway at the federal as well as state and local levels, are vital to reducing new HIV infections among Black MSM and to improving outcomes all along the HIV care continuum for this disproportionately impacted population.”

Taking it Forward

Progress on the HIV Continuum of Care Among Blacks
by Hazel D. Dean, MPH, ScD, Deputy Director, NCHA

Today, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released a new study, “Progress Along the Continuum of HIV Care Among Blacks with Diagnosed HIV— United States, 2010,” in the Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR). The study looked at outcomes for adult and adolescent blacks, both male and female, who have HIV for the five stages of the HIV continuum of care, including HIV diagnosis, linkage to care, staying in care, getting antiretroviral therapy (ART), and achieving a low amount of HIV virus in the body, referred to as viral suppression. These are the steps of the continuum of care and critical steps in our HIV prevention efforts.

 

The National HIV/AIDS Strategy (NHAS) outlines goals for the continuum of care, which includes achieving 85% linkage to care, 80% retention in care, and a 20% increase by 2015 in the number of persons with an undetectable viral load.

 

The new CDC analysis shows that among blacks of all age groups and both sexes who are HIV positive, 75% were linked to care, 48% were retained in care, 46% were prescribed anti-retroviral therapies (ART), and 35% had achieved viral suppression.

 

The study released today also shows

• That by age group young persons aged 13-24 years had the highest number of diagnoses and the lowest linkage to care (69%);
• That young persons, aged 18 to 24 years, were the least likely to have a suppressed viral load (18%);
• That by transmission category, male-to-male transmission had the lowest linkage to care at 71.6 percent;
• That more women (40%) than men (33%) have a suppressed viral load;
• That women with HIV attributed to injection drug use or heterosexual contact had the highest rate of linkage to care at 82% and 81%, respectively, and
• That lack of health insurance, poverty, and stigma are still leading reasons as to why blacks with HIV might not seek care, receive care, or adhere to care or achieve viral suppression.

Our first step has been and still is to get people tested for HIV. Once diagnosed, we must focus on strengthening our efforts to link and keep people with HIV in care, and promote adherence to medication to achieve optimal health outcomes.  

The Affordable Care Act strengthens continuum of care efforts by increasing coverage for HIV testing and ensuring that insurance companies can no longer deny coverage based on pre-existing conditions, including HIV—a big step forward for our efforts.

 

For this National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (Feb. 7) and every day, our work is dependent on all of us. As this year’s theme states, we are our brothers’/sisters’ keepers. We need to use the most effective tools and programs, and do all of this in a collaborative manner; so we can meet the goals of NHAS and continue our movement toward an AIDS-free generation.

 

Three Decades Later: HIV & AIDS Shifting and Trending

Trajectories and Torpedoes
HIV & AIDS in Arkansas' Black Community

HIV/AIDS continues to disproportionately affect Black America. Currently, three in five Black Americans know someone living with or who has died from HIV/AIDS. Although we account for
less than 14% of the U.S. population, Black America represented 44% of all new HIV infections in 2010, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Men who have sex with Men (MSM) remain the group most heavily affected by HIV, while young Black MSM continue to account for more than half of new infections among young MSM.

Subsequently in Arkansas, according to HIV Surveillance Report 2012, there has been a cumulative total of 7,937 cases. As of December 31, 2012, the report cites that 42.9%  or 2260 cases represent as individuals living with HIV/ NA (non AIDS) in the Black community which is only 16% of the entire state population.

In the MSM ( Men who have sex with Men) category, the report shows 2625 cases which according to CDC estimates at least 48%  or 1260 of these new cases were found among Black gay men 13-44 whom represent approximately 1% of the population. This data support was sourced from the Arkansas eHARDS ( Enhanced HIV AIDS Reporting System/ www.healthy.arkansas.gov)  and speaks to the ongoing dilemma of the impact of this chronic disease.

Meanwhile, the CDC reports a 21% decline in new HIV infections among women overall, however the new data shows that black women continue to be far more affected by HIV than women of other races/ethnicities. Of all the women living with HIV in the United States, approximately 66% are African American. Arkansas data breaks out along gender lines of "men and women" but does not specifically address ethic make up in the reported categories. Furthermore, the report does not include information concerning the trans person population although cites one person stating gender as "unknown."

With three decades passed in Arkansas there have been many bright moments of conferences, testing tours, gospel and comedy shows, awareness day programming and many other window dressing mash up's that have their purpose. Added to this mix has also been  Act 842 of 2007, which created the Arkansas HIV/AIDS Minority Task Force which produced a report citing conditions and practical solutions that was not funded.

Currently the group continues its monthly meetings and other activities that have resulted in marginal outcomes. Elected Black leadership has ebbed and flowed in their response to HIV and AIDS among their constituents. There has been no concerted effort to create legislation or address deficiencies in response to current conditions. Much of this neglect can be attributed to complacency and further necessary civic responsibility education.

Over the years we've had numerous other community assessments and the noted 2010 Harvard Law and Policy Clinic analysis entitled State Healthcare Access Research Project which took a comprehensive look at the states systems across the board. Yet, today much of that reports recommendations have all but been ignored or unimplemented as suggested.

Most glaring of those recommendations was creating a Consumer Office which was to act a liaison between the agency and the community. Another being revising cumbersome state contracting rules which can be vexing as well as obstructive to any community based organization attempting to fulfill their contractual expectations. 

This snapshot is not complete, but begs the questions that if the rest of world is talking about the end game of HIV and AIDS, it seems that Black communities across  Arkansas need to take a stark look at understanding its role in being in "the game" to end HIV and AIDS. Its inexcusable that more young individuals continue to become infected while many throughout the community have decided to take a position that they are not affected by this health dilemma. This is about "us healing us," and not waiting for another meager patronizing attempt to stem this "see no evil, hear no evil, speak no evil" genocide.  Ask yourself, "what you going to do about it?"


Need Free HIV Testing or Affordable Care Act information? Call 349-7777 to get the latest information and assistance. Do it today!
Come like our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/corneliusonpoint
 

Can U Hear Me Roar

So Just What is the State of Black Gays in Arkansas? commentary by COP 24/7 Executive Producer, Cornelius Mabin

Earlier this week, The National Gay and Lesbian Task Force's Creating Change came to a close after a multi-day extravaganza of workshops, empowerment sessions and a virtual who's who of the LGBTQ issues and subcultures. Although I had some intentions of attending, those plans were thwarted to my regret. However, I was totally into the Plenary sessions that were streamed either "live" or delayed for your viewing pleasure.

During that conference there was a "State of State " assessment from Rea Carey who proclaimed, "The state of our movement is, in fact, strong. Issue number one for the Task Force and for the movement in this last year was ending discrimination—from employment discrimination to marriage discrimination; from bullying in schools to the lack of support in assisted living programs; from discrimination against undocumented immigrants to transgender people, who face horrific discrimination in literally every single area of their lives."

In the Los Angeles, Atlanta and many other metro areas there will be a "State of State" speeches and dialog that outline the who, what, and WTF is going on in their communities. Yet in Arkansas, there's no aggrandized event where such proclamations or edicts are done. No major community think tank  where there's a collective understanding or enlightenment session where everyone has an "Aha" moment that we can digest for greater clarity.

For myself it was not what Ms. Carey had to say that struck my senses but rather that of Mr. Charles Stephens (pictured), whom has been a fellow at the CDC Institute for HIV Prevention Leadership and the Black AIDS Institute Community Mobilization College. He called out public health by inquiring that it is not "what has been done" concerning Black gay men but rather " what is planned to reach a better understanding" of Black gay men here and now.

I couldn't agree more, but what perplexes me is the fact that even though there are leadership academies, capacity building meet up's, conferences, Black Gay Men's Portfolio, BGM MSM working groups and probably even a kitchen sink or two, in Arkansas we can't get much interest from the population that all those aforementioned pools of thought were designed and created to assist.

Case in point, there have been several attempts to "connect" Black men to mentorship's or opportunities to learn self efficacy strategies. I know for a fact that great expense, intervention funding and extreme logistics have been explored to usher qualified persons into this realm of knowledge without any significant outcomes.

I fully understand that there are a myriad of issues to tackle especially those personal barriers that preclude some folk to participate. However, I have a terse reaction to those who stay in the shadows while throwing "shade" at others who are tying to improve the situation.

I get it and then I don't get it. I sat pensive as long time advocate Phil Wilson listed how many opportunities his organization has for training and what all the Black AIDS Institute has to offer. I recalled that a long ago fledging Black gay men's start up called RAPPS ( Reaching and Affirming, :Positive Progressive Systems)  was the first group to bring Wilson to Little Rock. It was a triumph for that struggling entity being supported by a small grant from Sisters on New Ground. I was so proud that it seemed that we were on our way to asserting ourselves amidst no real assets or resources.

Yet as I look around today from where I stand, all I can say is "hey Phil, I've looked in my state and there doesn't seem to be that bounty of Black gay men of any age interested in their community!"  Oh by the way Phil, I'm running out of optimism and patience trying to develop, build, elevate and certainly educate my ultimate replacement.

 In closing  let me roar out loud to the universe, where are the Black men in Arkansas who are willing to be of service to their community and provide the necessary leadership for the next generation. Who will continue to be my brother and sister's keeper?  Listen up, don't be fooled, Because if you are not at the table, most likely you will be the lunch! Think about it.

 

Talking Out Loud about HIV and AIDS in Arkansas

COP 24/7 Special: Black HIV/ AIDS Awareness Week 2014

National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (NBHAAD) was first observed in 1999. The Strategic Leadership Council of the National Black HIV AIDS Awareness Day Planning Committee plans and implements this observance.  The 2014 theme is “I Am My Brother’s and Sister’s Keeper. Fight HIV/AIDS!”. COP 24/7 has been forthright in our efforts to staying on point around the issues, challenges, breakthroughs and updates concerning the shifting landscape of this malady in Arkansas.

Although there have been three decades of tremendous resources expended ranging from the early
days of limited research to now a burgeoning infectious disease industrial complex, including future delivery systems centered around the Affordable Care Act, there still seems to be a distinct disparity in communities of color.

Arkansas statistics have been quoted by Arkansas Department of Health, State Health Director, Dr. Nathaniel Smith that "Over 5,000 people in Arkansas are living with HIV and hundreds more are diagnosed each year.” He further explained in 2013 prior to community training sessions on HIV and AIDS in Arkansas that “There is a great need for early detection and treatment not only for the health of individuals with HIV, but also to stop the spread of the disease,” said Smith. “The purpose of the training sessions is to make community members aware of the impact of HIV and AIDS in Arkansas and provide the tools they need to help stop the spread of the disease in their areas.”

Yet as these efforts come and go, there seems to be a continuing disconnect in the Black community in which citizen leaders and policy makers can't move forward with understanding that the continuing silence will certainly mean more deaths despite the infection being a chronic one. The embed below features a 2006 ABC report which addressed the then and now, out of control nature of infection rates across the nation. Even though we are now in the age of treatment cascades, care continuum's and 4th Generation Testing, we must begin to further question Arkansas' ability to create the high impact  prevention that has been outlined by the CDC as central to the endgame of HIV and AIDS. What about the fact that Arkansas HIV/AIDS funding has ebbed and flowed on federal funding for years without much question nor much effort to capture other additional resources or revenues.

Amazing as it would seem, much of the information highlighted in this piece, still has relevance still to this day. The question is why? It is no secret that Black on Black crime has taken center stage, not to mention a plethora of other social concerns such as unemployment, affordable housing and economic parity. Meanwhile newly infected young gay Black men 13-24 continue to languish in the states patchwork system that can be a nightmarish navigation even before dropping one ounce of medication.

However, it is imperative that Black community leaders and policy makers not only raise hand over fist dollars for child obesity but not be uncomfortable with using their considerable networks to re-address stigma, homophobia, and how they can assist with raising awareness on all levels. All this week COP 24/7 will be exploring many questions, rationales and resistance to dealing with HIV and AIDS in the Black Community. Stay with us all week. We encourage your comments, observations and dialog.