VIVAIDS Values

Self determination and empowerment
• We respect the sovereignty of individuals over their own bodies

• We respect and affirm peoples lifestyle choices

• We believe that individuals and communities have the right to be heard and to determine their own goals and paths through life, provided always that the equal rights of others are not diminished.
We oppose stigma and discrimination:
• Stigma and discrimination cause unwarranted harm to people who use drugs and their families and to the wider community to which they belong.

• Stigma and discrimination marginalise and isolate people, separating individuals from friends, family and community support and denying them equitable access to opportunities, services and participation.

• Stigma and discrimination act as barriers to the reduction of drug-related harm and to health promotion initiatives.

• Stigma undermines human dignity and self-efficacy.  It makes it harder for people to participate in the social, cultural and economic life of the community and it undermines individuals’ efforts to develop their potential and to deal with challenges and problems.-

• VIVAIDS therefore affirms the rights of all people, including those who use drugs, to fair, equitable and respectful treatment in all aspects of life.  We assert that a person’s choice to use illicit substances, while unlawful, should not of itself have any impact upon their rights as workers, consumers of goods and services or as valued members of society.
[© 2008 VIVAIDS Inc.]