Operating Principles Against Fascism in "A Refusal to Abandon HIV Science"
Inspired by Miriame Kaba and Kelly Hayes, the authors center "refusing to abandon" in collective action
The peer-reviewed journal AIDS has published a compelling set of “principles that can guide HIV efforts in light of the US-led censorship, funding freezes, and attacks on the scientific enterprise.”
I want you to read it, and to share it. So here it is:
Regarding the cuts and chaos of recent weeks, the authors correctly note that “the purpose of these antiscience actions is to induce a culture of fear,” while “universities and research organizations are doing little to protect HIV researchers or students, and are actively encouraging self-censorship or silencing to navigate the current political reality.”
They insist that “as an HIV field, we can and must do better… As scientists, we can use our prestige and training to push back with focus and intent.”
I’ll let you read the details, but here are the principles they are encouraging, which apply much more broadly than just HIV:
Principle 1. Remember that social movements drove our field
Principle 2. Do not comply in advance
Principle 3. Retain precise language
Principle 4. Harness collective power in explicit and subtle ways
Principle 5. Acknowledge that each affront to HIV science is connected
More soon. Sending love.