A Study of the Challenges perceived by African American Young Men Who Have Sex with Men (AAYMSM) that increase their risks of infection and transmission of HIV/AIDS and that hinder their efforts at Community Mobilization, Education and Prevention

In 2000, more African American men became infected with HIV/AIDS than any other racial/ethnic population. This research investigates a target population of African American Young Men who have Sex with Men (AAYMSM), ages 18-24, and the challenges that they perceive in their efforts at community mobilization toward the prevention of infection and transmission of HIV/AIDS. This research was conducted for Gay Men of African Descent (GMAD), a community-based organization (CBO) working to support, unite, and mobilize African-American, Latino, Continental African, and Caribbean men in the fight against HIV/AIDS, homophobia, and racism. The research methodology included the use of structured surveys, personal observations, and interviews with key informants and personnel within the network of consultants to GMAD\u27s Capacity Building Assistance Program. Survey participants were selected from various CBOs and youth organizations in the Northeastern United States (U.S.). Three primary factors for consideration were uncovered during the course of the study: homophobia in black communities, the importance of racial identity, and the impact of the feminist perspective on this type of research. The results of this research are expected to benefit GMAD, other organizations working with gay black men, and government organizations working in the areas of HIV/AIDS prevention and education, including the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)