People living with HIV possess the largest stake in HIV-related policy issues and are the most effective voices in advocacy. Their leadership has been crucial since the disease was first identified in 1981. As we work toward an end to the HIV epidemic, AIDS Alabama is proud to convene the Positive Leadership Council, a core group of advocacy leaders living with HIV who will participate in the following activities:

• Join fellow council members for monthly in-person meetings to discuss current HIV-related policy issues (meals provided by AIDS Alabama and our community partners).

• Attend quarterly trainings to expand advocacy skills (e.g., effective storytelling, building relationships with policymakers, how to build an advocacy campaign, etc.)

• Increase awareness of HIV-related policy issues by engaging with other members of your community (e.g., friends and family, peers, elected officials, etc.) and working with other peer leaders on advocacy efforts.

• Pass along advocacy skills and policy knowledge to empower others living with HIV.

 

Members of the 2025-2026 Birmingham Positive Leadership Council will serve from July 9, 2025, through March 11, 2026. Council members will help to plan and carry out Alabama's annual HIV Awareness Week, and support collaborative actions and trainings led by people living with HIV. Additionally, members will receive a stipend of $100 per month ($900 total) as compensation for their time and work.

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Requirements: All interested members must agree to the following.

1. be available to attend at least 6 of the 9 monthly hybrid or in person meetings; missing no more than 3 in totality

2. be available to attend any advocacy training before and during the cycle

3. be available to assist with no less than one public event or peer advocacy training

4. be available to respond to PLC-related emails and phone calls in a timely manner (e.g. within 36-hours)

 

The Positive Leadership Council is based upon mutual respect among members. All members must treat each person within the group with respect and communicate any disagreement in a non-confrontational manner. In return, members can expect the same respect and honesty of other members. When participating in Positive Leadership Council events, members are a representative of AIDS Alabama. Monthly stipends are contingent upon engagement in advocacy and council-related activities during the relevant month. This includes, but is not limited to, the monthly council meetings. Failure to meet all of the requirements may result in a disciplinary action that could lead to the release of my PLC membership and future participation. 

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