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Fighting HIV Stigma Starts in the Workplace — How B/ERG Groups Can Lead the Way

June 27th is National HIV Testing Day, a critical moment on the calendar that encourages everyone to know their HIV status and take charge of their health. The date—exactly six months after World AIDS Day—is no coincidence. Testing every six months is the gold standard for HIV prevention and care, and June 27 offers an important reminder of that cadence.

But what does this mean for business leaders?

At first glance, HIV awareness might not seem like a business concern—but it absolutely is. HIV affects employee health, workplace productivity, and even the bottom line. When employees are unaware of their status or unable to access care, the result can be increased absenteeism, rising healthcare costs, and diminished morale. Like diabetes or smoking, HIV is a chronic condition that has a real impact on your workforce and your health plans.

Enter B/ERG Groups: A Powerful Tool for Change

Business/Employee Resource Groups (B/ERGs) are often formed to support underrepresented communities, build inclusion, and amplify voices within companies. But they can do more than foster belonging—they can be key players in health equity, too.

B/ERG groups are uniquely positioned to:

  • Raise HIV visibility through educational programs and discussions
  • Reduce stigma by normalizing conversations about prevention and treatment
  • Empower colleagues with accurate information and access to testing and care
  • Link with local HIV organizations like Allies in Hope, Legacy Community Health, and AIDS Healthcare Foundation

These local organizations are vital resources. They not only provide free or low-cost testing, but also connect individuals to prevention medication like PrEP, ongoing care, and sliding-scale or insurance-based treatment. As Ryan Wilson, a leader in HIV advocacy and education, shared:

“Getting people tested is the start to their path toward either prevention or treatment. And the Houston business community is lucky—we don’t have to look far to find high-quality, compassionate HIV care resources.”

Make It a Workplace Priority

Here are three actionable ways your company or B/ERG can make a difference year-round:

  1. Incorporate HIV Awareness Days – Add World AIDS Day (Dec 1) and National HIV Testing Day (June 27) to your internal DEI or wellness calendar.

  2. Promote Educational Programming – Host webinars, virtual lunch-and-learns, or panel discussions. The Chamber and its partners can help connect you with speakers and content.

  3. Share Testing Resources with Your Team – Whether through internal newsletters or team meetings, make sure your employees know where and how to get tested.

The Greater Houston LGBTQ+ Chamber of Commerce recently organized a highly successful "lunch and learn" event for B/ERG Leaders to explore this very topic in more detail. For those who were unable to attend or wish to revisit the valuable insights shared, a complete recording of the session is now available online. 

Not every employee will feel comfortable seeking this information on their own. When business leaders and B/ERGs lead with empathy and openness, they help create a safer, more informed workplace—one that supports the whole person.

Where to Get Tested in Houston

Don’t know where to start? These organizations offer testing, treatment, and support services across Greater Houston:

Final Word

HIV is a business issue because it’s a people issue. And when you support your people—through awareness, education, and access to care—your entire organization thrives.

Let today be more than a date on the calendar. Let it be the beginning of a workplace culture that embraces health equity, reduces stigma, and empowers every employee to show up fully—healthy, informed, and valued.

Visit https://www.houstonlgbtchamber.com/endhiv/ to learn more about the Chamber’s initiatives to help end the stigma. 


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