I protest and condemn broadcasting the photograph of my children

[Guest guest]

Dear Ms. Padjama,

Congratulations on your strong statement. It is a very sad commentary on the

media that assurances of confidentiality cannot be trusted. And a VERY sad

commentary on society that being open about HIV+ status still leads almost

inevitably to destructive discrimination.

On the other hand we need to caution any person living with HIV that and public

appearance brings with it the possibility of media coverage. The people who

have made a point of declaring their status openly are also to be congratulated

for their great courage and leadership. We need more and more open PLAWHA

claiming their rights.

Jon Love

E-mail:<jonlove@...>

[Guest guest]

Dear FORUM,

I am glad a positive person has finally protested against using

pictures of positive chidlren. It is not just the media but several

NGOs working with positive people who use photographs of children

living in their care center and even give out names of these children

during prsentations in conferences and seminars.

During the Chennai conference recently, a few groups used pictures

and children's voice overs which seemed to only sensationalize the

issue and seemed gimmicky.

Sorry if this response is a little strong.

Akhila Panchamukhi

E-mail: akhila_punch@...