ChicaRocky23
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When it comes to education and jobs, it's always been said "All some people need is an OPPORTUNITY to go to school" or "They just want the OPPORTUNITY to get to work".
This week, I found out that many young people just want the OPPORTUNITY to keep sexually aware, the OPPORTUNITY to access information, the OPPORTUNITY to get HIV testing, and the OPPORTUNITY to access condoms without fear or discrimination.
Safer Sex Week on UTECH campus really reminded me of that, and i figured I'd share that experience with you.
The first time i really realised this was Feb 4. The first health fair was on, with free HIV testing; among other tests and health opportunities. I worked with the HIV testing department, and in doing so, went on a major promotion mission; walking around campus telling people about the free blood pressure, blood sugar, and HIV testing opportunities. It was interesting to note that majority were more interested in the HIV testing, and confessed that as soon as I said HIV testing, i had their attention, as it was something they wanted to do, but didn't know where, or couldnt afford it. Once they knew they had that OPPORTUNITY, they seized it.
Both Thursday and Friday of the week, free HIV testing was provided on campus again, and for both days, the testing bus was full, with lines running all over the park.
Finally, young people want access to condoms without fear of being ridiculed, scandalized, or looked down on. Starting last friday, I went on a condom distribution mission. I didnt go around asking people if they wanted condoms. I simply had on my shirt that promotes condom use, and had a bag with "CONDOM" written on it. Oddly enough, people CAME to me asking if i really had condoms, and if i could give them some. Many of them took the opportunity to ask me questions pertaining to their sexual health etc, and it was good to know that at the end of the discussion, they said they felt comfortable being able to discuss those matters. Needless to say, they came back during the week...
But really, all we did was give young people the OPPORTUNITY to live a healthy life, and they took it... cuz really, thats all they want... the Opportunity.
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