What are American Indian/ Alaskan Natives (AI/AN) HIV prevention needs?
Yes. American Indians and Alaskan Natives (AI/AN) represent a unique population within the US, not only because of their oppression suffered in the development of this country but also because of their ongoing struggle to gain recognition in the HIV/AIDS epidemic. AI/ANs are not so unique, however, that they are protected from the same behaviors that put all people at risk for HIV infection. The long history of oppression of AI/AN in the US has had a devastating effect on the health and well-being of Native Peoples. This history, including colonization, outlawing Native languages and spiritual practices, and centuries of forced relocation, has created justified mistrust of US government programs and health institutions. (1) This legacy continues to shape the experience of AI/AN as they are disproportionately impacted by poverty, ill health, family violence and drug and alcohol abuse. All of these factors are associated with HIV risk. (2) Through the end of 2000, AI/ANs comprised 2,337
