Ready for An Impact That Stays With You?

With HIV Speaks on Jones St. less than a month and a half away, I wanted to take a moment—as both an NCAAN board member and participant—to reflect on my experience from HIV Speaks on Jones St.

Last year marked my third time participating, and its impact has stayed with me. My hope in sharing this is to energize you for what’s ahead, offer perspective for first-time attendees, and serve as a reminder of just how powerful this day is for those returning.

The day began early on a hot Carolina morning. Our team from Triad Health Project arrived in Raleigh before most people had even started their workday. We joined the larger group for a brief gathering, where the energy was already building. The morning speeches grounded us in purpose, and we captured that moment with a group photo before heading down to the legislature on Jones Street.

Throughout the day we met with multiple legislators, some aligned with our work, others not as much. One meeting stood out—we engaged with a legislator who expressed disagreement but still connected with us on a human level. That felt like progress.

By our final meeting, even in a space where we did not feel heard, something had shifted within our group. We found our rhythm,we supported one another, built on each other’s voices, and stayed focused on our message. In that moment, I was most proud—not because of how the conversation landed, but because of how we showed up for our community. We were not deterred. If anything, it strengthened our resolve and sharpened our advocacy resolve.

What stood out most was the energy of the day and the courage it took for people living with and impacted by HIV to show up as they were, despite stigma, and share their stories with strangers, and at times, opposition. Watching individuals speak their truth, some for the first time, and seeing those stories land with policymakers was deeply moving.We spoke with strength and clarity—not through volume, but through vulnerability, kindness, humor, connection, and passion. That day reminded me that I am never truly without power. As long as I have connection, I have a way to help create change.

As we look ahead to this year’s HIV Speaks on Jones St., I hope to see many familiar faces return. At the same time, we must acknowledge that some will not be able to join us this year. And yet, the need remains. The mission remains. The stigma, the barriers, and the laws we are working to change remain.

I am excited to build on last year’s momentum and invite you to do the same by joining us on June 3rd in Raleigh. I look forward to seeing you at HIV Speak on Jones St.

–Corey Higgins, Director of Client Relations at Triad Health Project

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