The City of Pittsburgh LGBTQIA+ Commission convened for its regular July meeting with an agenda of some brief updates before a comprehensive briefing from local non-profit AIDS Free Pittsburgh (AFP).
Commissioners reviewed recommendations currently in progress, including establishing unisex restrooms, implementing sexual orientation and gender identity (SOGI) training for city employees, providing free menstrual products, and ensuring reproductive leave for city workers. Additionally, legislation to formally codify the participation of a mayoral staff member on the Commission is being finalized for introduction to City Council.
The majority of the session was dedicated to AFP’s presentation. AFP representatives Kell Wilkinson, Hazel Azer, and intern Jay described their strategic approach, including normalizing HIV testing in healthcare settings, expanding access to pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), and improving rapid linkage to care for individuals newly diagnosed with HIV.
AFP emphasized their collaborative “collective impact” model, coordinating government, healthcare, and community organizations rather than directly providing services. They also discussed their data-driven methodologies, ongoing media outreach, and newly formed policy and advocacy committee.
Commissioners showed significant interest in collaborating with AFP, especially concerning policy advocacy around housing discrimination and healthcare access. Plans were discussed for potential commission support in amplifying AFP’s initiatives and messaging.
The commission voted unanimously to officially support a community forum with the Pittsburgh Commission on Human Relations planned for the fall, as well as to participate in disseminating the Pennsylvania LGBTQ Health Needs Assessment survey.
The meeting concluded with several community announcements, including upcoming events such as Pittsburgh Black Pride (July 22–27) and Monroeville Pride (July 27). Progress on the Mosaic LGBTQ+ senior housing development in Oakland was also noted, highlighting community engagement in creating artwork for the facility.
Commissioners adjourned after expressing gratitude to AFP presenters and reaffirming their commitment to addressing HIV-related public health and policy issues in Pittsburgh.
