WE SPEAK- Young Women's Committee Women Empowered Support Protect Educate Advocate and Know (WE SPEAK), is a Peer Empowerment and Advocacy Component of the Coalition. Formed in 2006 with 25 young women of color from the five boroughs, the group consists of both HIV positive and HIV negative young women who meet weekly. Members assist in - identifying the goals and program priorities of the Coalition and the development of activities and events for young women of color.
Annual Health Summit YWCHAC hosts an annual health summit for young women of color in NYC in honor of National Women and Girls HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, in March. Members of WE SPEAK along with the steering committee and general members work collaboratively to design, implement and evaluate the event. The overall goal of the summit, is to address HIV/AIDS and its impact on young women of color. The summit provides information to attendees on issues impacting HIV infection rates - educational options, financial literacy and health concerns.
Safer Sex Education Parties The Safer Sex Education parties offer a safe environment which is created by the young women to discuss and learn about safer sex techniques and negotiation skills. Free rapid HIV tests and confidential counseling are offerered to attendees. In addition, several youth-serving agencies table at the parties providing valuable information where young men and women can access services.
Quarterly Meetings Our quarterly meetings for youth service providers in NYC on topical issues impacting the lives of young women of color. The meetings enable the Coalition to strengthen partnerships with HIV and non-HIV identified agencies and highlight the intersection of youth services and HIV/AIDS prevention because HIV prevention is youth development. The information and knowledge sharing raises awareness in communities and agencies to further develop programs, policy statements, and affect funding priorities that include best practices and lessons learned.
