Friday, October 30, 2009

Obama Signs Ryan White HIV/AIDS Treatment Extension Act of 2009

Obama says HIV/AIDS was originally dubbed a "gay disease" and the perception among many was that the people who got AIDS deserved it (there are people who still believe that today).

In the 1980s, 13-year-old Ryan White got AIDS from a transfusion, but ignorance was still widespread and he was tormented. The White family had to move to another town. In 1990, Ryan died. Obama reauthorizes the CARE (Comprehensive AIDS Resources Emergency) act. Henry Waxman led the House in passing CARE legislation in 1990.

22 years ago, the U.S. banned people from entering the country with HIV/AIDS. Who knew? Obama is eliminating the travel ban after the New Year.