The HIV-Positive Ray Brothers House Is Burned Down (1987) w/ Eric Marcus

Aug 29, 2024

Eric Marcus, a key figure in the 'Making Gay History' project, joins to shed light on the tragic story of the Ray brothers, three HIV-positive children whose home was tragically burned down in 1987. They discuss the rampant fear and misinformation about AIDS during that era, highlighting the stigma faced not only by adults but also by vulnerable children. Personal stories expose the harsh realities of discrimination, while the community's response ultimately sparked legislative change, emphasizing the crucial fight against stigma that continues today.

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Intro

00:00 • 4min

Fears and Misunderstandings: Hemophilia and HIV in the 1980s

04:05 • 7min

The Struggle Against Stigma: A Family's Fight Amidst AIDS Fear

11:19 • 5min

Community Resilience and Stigma

16:19 • 7min

The Struggle of the Ray Brothers Amidst the AIDS Crisis

22:52 • 3min