July Awareness Observances and Resources

Zero HIV Stigma Day: Tuesday, July 21, 2026

Observed annually on July 21, Zero HIV Stigma Day is a global movement dedicated to raising awareness about HIV-related stigma and promoting dignity, inclusion, and equity for people living with and affected by HIV. The day serves as a reminder that stigma remains a significant barrier to HIV prevention, testing, treatment, and care. By challenging misconceptions and fostering informed, compassionate conversations, we can help create communities where everyone can access the support and services they need without fear of judgment.

In recognition of Zero HIV Stigma Day, check out the following resources from the Effi Barry Training Institute.

• On-Demand Training - Addressing Stigma and Stigmatizing Language in the Workplace
  This thought-provoking webinar addresses stigmatizing language used when talking about HIV, mental health, and substance use disorders and how this language perpetuates bias in the workplace.
   
• Toolkit - Creating LGBTQ+ Affirming Organizations
  Access practical tools and strategies to build welcoming, inclusive environments that support LGBTQ+ individuals seeking care and services.

National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month: July 2026

Observed each July, National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month raises awareness of the unique mental health challenges experienced by racial and ethnic minority communities. Social determinants of health, stigma, discrimination, trauma, and barriers to care continue to impact mental health outcomes and access to services.

For HIV service providers, addressing mental health is essential to supporting engagement in care, treatment adherence, and overall well-being. This month, we encourage organizations to reflect on how they can foster culturally responsive, trauma-informed environments that support the whole person.

The following resource from the Effi Barry Training Institute can help you engage effectively with clients to promote better mental health outcomes among minority communities.

• On-Demand Training - The Intersection of Mental Health and HIV Among Youth
  This webinar focuses on mental health challenges among children, adolescents, and young adults with HIV. Faculty provide strategies for addressing particular needs and promoting overall physical and mental health

NO-COST Technical Assistance

The Effi Barry Training Institute is dedicated to empowering current and prospective HAHSTA grantees and community-based organizations with the knowledge and tools to thrive. We offer targeted training and technical assistance across a variety of key areas. 

We provide technical assistance for: 

• Navigating the Fee-for-Service business process
• Mastering foundational HIV service competencies
• Advancing expertise in healthcare systems, data, and health informatics
• Implementing high-impact prevention strategies (including biomedical models)
• Integrating emerging evidence-based practices 

Our approach blends group-level training, hands-on boot camps, dynamic community forums, and tailored one-on-one consultations.

At HealthHIV, we believe in the power of holistic, patient-centered care. Our capacity-building efforts are designed to help organizations enhance patient outcomes, drive efficiencies, and maintain long-term sustainability. Through our innovative approach, we build robust, sustainable systems and services that address every stage of the HIV care continuum.

Submit a Technical Assistance Request form to connect with EBTI today or scan this QR code:

This project is funded wholly, or in part, by the Government of the District of Columbia, Department of Health, HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis, STD, and TB Administration (HAHSTA).