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APHA Scientific Session and Event Listing

Recorded presentation

Lisa M. Kuhns, MPH, Institute for Health Research and Policy (M/C 275), University of Illinois at Chicago, 1747 W. Roosevelt Road, Suite 558, Chicago, IL 60608, 312-413-2868, lisak@uic.edu and Jesus Ramirez-Valles, MPH, PhD, School of Public Health, University of Illinois at Chicago, 1603 W. Taylor Street (M/C 923), Chicago, IL 60612.

Stigma and discrimination may have negative health consequences for stigmatized individuals. For gay and bisexual men and transgender individuals (GBT), the stigmas of homosexuality and HIV/AIDS are coexisting and linked to depression, substance use, and sexual risk behavior (Link and Phelan, 2001; Meyer, 1995, 2003; Ramirez-Valles, 2005). These stigmas may have more severe consequences for Latino GBTs because of the added stereotypes of race and immigration (Diaz, 1998). Unfortunately, stigma-related research and interventions are limited, particularly for Latino communities. Storytelling through educational film provides a method to address the origins of stigma (e.g., attributions of responsibility, fear) in a widely available and accessible medium. The purpose of this project is to translate stigma-related research findings to educational film. Previously collected life histories of Latino GBT community volunteers and activists were analyzed to identify aspects of their lives that convey important sources of stigma, are well suited for a film portrayal, and have potential to change stigmatizing attitudes. An initial film concept was developed, based on specific themes and stories, and presented to Latino GBT activists and educators in four cities for feedback (Chicago, New York, San Francisco, Washington, D.C.). Based on this feedback, an initial film script and treatment were developed. The film is currently under production and will feature life stories of Latino GBTs, underscoring three sources of stigma: family, school, and religion. The primary target audience for the film will be Latino youth (i.e., ages 14-24) and the secondary audience Latino adults.

Learning Objectives:

• Decribe the impact of the stigmas of homosexuality and HIV/AIDS on health.
• Identify the reasons why storytelling through educational film may be an effective medium to change stigma-related attitudes.
• Articulate the process through which stigma-related research may be transferred to educational film.

Keywords: Hispanic, Homophobia

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Any relevant financial relationships? No

Recorded presentation