Canadian drag queens are helping to spread the word about HIV prevention methods in a new PrEP campaign.
Toronto’s only dedicated PrEP (Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis for HIV) clinic says there has been a decrease in HIV transmission between men but an increase in cases through heterosexual contact.
Recent data trends highlight a significant shift in HIV transmission rates, with a decline in cases among male-to-male sexual contact, from 50.6 per cent in 2012 to 39.71 per cent in 2021, according to the clinic.
However, cases through heterosexual contact increased from 30.2 per cent in 2012 to 33.8 per cent in 2021 and 1 in 4 new HIV cases are reported in women.
But The PrEP Clinic’s new campaign, “It’s PrEP b*tch” is on a mission to mitigate transmission by fostering a sense of community among sexually active individuals, to dismantle stigma surrounding HIV prevention medication and encourage a more inclusive dialogue about sexual health.
“‘It’s PrEP Bitch’ aims to empower individuals to reclaim their sexual freedom and embrace acceptance without fear,” a The PrEP Clinic press release said.
To achieve this, The PrEP Clinic has enlisted an eclectic lineup of talent including Canada’s Drag Race queens Jada Shada Hudson, Tynomi Banks, and BOA, along with revered South Asian female DJ Lady Pista and other prominent figures in the arts and performance industry.
The campaign’s hero piece is a song and music video paying homage to music’s ability to connect and unite communities.
“We are thrilled to launch the ‘It’s PrEP B*tch’ campaign, a bold step towards breaking barriers
and empowering individuals to prioritize their sexual health,” Ali Naqi, creative director at
The PrEP Clinic, said in a statement.
“Through this initiative, we aim to foster open dialogue, celebrate diversity, and
create a community where everyone feels welcome and empowered,” Naqi concluded.
