Tony Billups, Sigma

In this episode of the Grown in Greek podcast, host DJ Chocolate interviews Tony Billups, a dedicated HIV advocate and author. Tony shares his personal journey of living with HIV for over 30 years, discussing the stigma surrounding the disease, his experiences in activism, and the importance of mentorship in HIV care. He reflects on his life experiences, including fatherhood and personal loss, and how these events shaped his purpose and led him to write his book, 'Walking in Truth Fatherhood.' The conversation also touches on current trends in HIV infections, particularly among Black communities and youth, emphasizing the need for continued awareness and education. In this conversation, Tony Billups discusses the importance of educating youth about sexual health, particularly in the context of HIV prevention. He emphasizes the need for open conversations about sex and health, mentorship for LGBTQ+ youth, and the significance of community resources. Billups also addresses the impact of political decisions on health funding and the necessity of creating spaces for Black Pride to ensure visibility and representation in the LGBTQ+ community.