March 20 is National Native HIV/AIDS Awareness Day (NNHAAD), an annual opportunity to raise awareness about the impact of HIV on Native American communities and to honor the resilience and strength of Native people in the fight against HIV/AIDS. 

As of 2024, there were 200 Native Americans living with diagnosed HIV in New York State, 87% of which were receiving care, and 79% who had achieved viral suppression. Viral suppression not only improves the health and well-being of people living with HIV but also reduces the risk of onward transmission.

Although care continuum data for Native Americans show promising trends, sustaining progress requires ongoing investment in culturally responsive, community-led care. Native communities continue to encounter challenges such as limited access to healthcare, stigma, and the lasting effects of historical trauma, all of which can influence health outcomes.

For more information about National Native HIV/AIDS Awareness Day and resources for Native communities, please visit the New York Indian Council website. This page offers additional context, educational materials, and ways to support awareness and prevention efforts.