by Tony Shields
HIV is a real threat in Milwaukee. The time to address the growing problem of HIV in our community is now--before it worsens and affects more of our family and friends.

Many people think HIV and AIDS are problems in Africa. The truth is HIV and AIDS are problems right here in Milwaukee--problems that unfortunately continue to grow at an alarming rate in the African American community.

In Wisconsin, one-half of the more than 6,000 people living with HIV are people of color. HIV continues to be a health crisis in our community as the following statistics all too clearly indicate:

o Last year, 49% of new HIV infections in Wisconsin were among African Americans even though African Americans make-up 12% of the population.

o African Americans in our state are 10 times more likely to have HIV than are Whites.

o AIDS is now a leading cause of death for African Americans, and is the leading cause of death for young African American women between 25- and 34-years-old.

The racial disparity that exists is even greater for African American women where the infection rate is 16 times higher than it is for White women.

African Americans represent 39% of new HIV infections among women.

Four Milwaukee zip codes, 53204, 53206, 53208, and 53212, have the highest concentration of HIV infection of anywhere in Wisconsin.

This disproportionate affect of HIV in the African American community here in Milwaukee is why I decided to get involved in the fight against HIV and raise awareness about this crisis in our community.

The AIDS Resource Center of Wisconsin (ARCW) is the largest provider of medical care to people of color in Milwaukee with one-half of the 1,240 ARCW Medical Center patients African American.

I have had the opportunity to support several public health campaigns during my time in Milwaukee. I chose to become a volunteer with ARCW because of the tremendous amount of good work this organization does with African American men and women throughout our community.

I have also worked with the contributions committee of the Harley-Davidson Foundation to help secure funding for the African American HIV outreach activities conducted by ARCW.

Now, I ask you to join with me in better understanding HIV. The important first step for everyone to begin the fight against HIV is to be tested. Anyone can schedule a free HIV test by calling ARCW at 414-273-1991. Knowing your HIV status can literally save your life.

I am also honored to announce ARCW is partnering with AM 1290 WMCS, the "Community Journal" and the "Milwaukee Times" to raise awareness about HIV in our community.

Every week for the next three months there will be news stories and features about HIV and what you can do to avoid becoming infected.

There will also be information available on the radio and in the papers about HIV testing and the outstanding health care options available to people living with HIV through the ARCW Medical Center.

I encourage everyone to review the facts and personal stories that will be shared.

I also encourage you to discuss this issue with your family and friends.

HIV and AIDS should be discusses openly and honestly. Sharing information will help save lives.

Tony Shields is manager, Community Relations for Harley-Davidson Motor Company and a member of the AIDS Resource Center of Wisconsin Board of Directors.