William Torres Fuentes

Harnett, NC

William Torres Fuentes is a gay Latino living with HIV who believes that the lack of understanding around HIV/AIDS paired with North Carolina’s lack of laws explicitly protecting LGBTQ people from discrimination make it more challenging to live life freely and get the care he needs and deserves. 

In North Carolina, there are no explicit statewide protections for LGBTQ people in employment, housing, and public spaces, including doctors’ offices or hospitals. That’s why William is encouraged to see local leaders stepping up to fill in the gaps. He hopes that leaders across North Carolina take bold actions to protect LGBTQ people from discrimination.

Photo by Charlotte Lopez

“These comprehensive protections would go a long way towards ensuring that all of us can go about our daily lives without the fear of discrimination or harassment, simply for being who we are,” he said.

Alongside the need for explicit protections is an ongoing need across NC to combat the HIV/AIDS crisis, which disproportionately impacts LGBTQ people in NC. William said he has frequently encountered a fundamental lack of knowledge about HIV/AIDS from healthcare professionals, whether it’s during a standard visit to the dentist or an unexpected trip to the Emergency Room.

“Providers have sometimes seemed nervous to physically interact with me or have inaccurately advised me on sexual health, although I take my medication and am currently undetectable,” William said. “Through the years, I have learned that knowledge is power, and that together, we can help to break down stigma one person at a time. HIV is preventable and treatable. We can all take concrete steps toward a better future for people living with HIV and for the LGBTQIA+ community at large. We can change this story, and I’m committed to being a part of the solution.”

Have you urged your local leaders to pass a nondiscrimination ordinance yet? Click here to join William in making your voice heard.