AIDS in KC: The History of HIV/AIDS in Kansas City

"The Early Days"

In the 1980s and early 90s, the LGBTQ community nationwide found itself rocked by a new virus that few understood, with little support or acknowledgment from society or elected leaders. Though Washington D.C. and the nation at large were mostly silent, Kansas City was not. Local members of the community and allies recognized the injustice of turning the other way. They began a grassroots movement to shine a spotlight on the epidemic and rally support for those affected.

"Facing the Challenge"

This follow-up to AIDS in KC: The Early Days focuses on the next phase as community members who, in the absence of cohesive intervention from state and federal government, rallied to organize and support those affected by the epidemic in the mid-1908s and 90s. Social workers, nurses, doctors and heads of community organizations, including bars and churches, formed alliances and held fundraisers, building a grassroots social safety net for queer people abandoned by those in power.

"On Our Way"

Set between 1992 and 2000, “On Our Way” showcases organizers rallying troops to fight against HIV/AIDS as the city's war on the virus ramps up. Local efforts like SAVE Inc., the AIDS Service Foundation and AIDS Walk combat the spread of the virus by raising awareness and advocating for HIV/ AIDS education, testing and treatment. During this era, many Kansas Citians established themselves as influential comrades in the search for a cure by launching signature fundraisers like Dining by Design and Flo’s Sunday Beer Bust.  

"Getting to Zero"

The final episode of the series follows individuals currently navigating the complexities of living with HIV/AIDS and the local organizers aiming for a future of zero new infections, deaths or discrimination. Even as infection rates for some communities continue to rise, the stigma prevents many people from proactively testing or treating the virus.