AEGiS-PRn: Realistic Drama on African American Gays and HIV Now Available

Important note: Information in this article was accurate in 2003. The state of the art may have changed since the publication date.

Realistic Drama on African American Gays and HIV Now Available

PRNewswire - December 18, 2003

CHICAGO, Dec. 18 /PRNewswire/ -- Health departments and community organizations wondering what to do for Kwanzaa (December) or Black History Month (February) can now consider the long-awaited sequel to an award-winning drama. "Kevin's Room 2: Trust" is a groundbreaking new film that addresses the spread of HIV among gay and bisexual African American men -- as well as their girlfriends who may be unaware of their outside activities. Now, the pioneering hour of urban contemporary drama is becoming available to local and national organizations that need help personalizing the impact of the HIV/AIDS epidemic in communities of color. While the formal release date is February 1, 2004, the film may be made available (on a case-by-case basis) for large events scheduled sooner. The film also is appropriate for February 7, 2004, which is National Black HIV/AIDS Awareness Day.

Funded by the Chicago Department of Public Health (CDPH), with support from GlaxoSmithKline, Abbott Virology and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, "Kevin's Room 2" is part of an innovative social marketing strategy to deliver messages about HIV prevention in non-traditional settings.

Produced and directed by Sharon Zurek of Black Cat Productions and CDPH Office of Lesbian and Gay Health Director Lora Branch, "Kevin's Room 2" is the second in a series of 60-minute films that explore gay and bisexual relationships, HIV testing, substance abuse and sexual risk-taking in the lives of African-American men. It is the sequel to "Kevin's Room," an award-winning, internationally acclaimed drama that CDPH released in 2001.

Organizations across America continue to use "Kevin's Room" for conferences or group presentations as a serious but entertaining conversation starter for a tough topic. Many organizations have invited members of the cast or crew to participate in group discussions following the film.

"Traditional methods of health education, like fact sheets and brochures, are useful but only go so far," stated CDPH Commissioner John Wilhelm, M.D. "The continued urgency of the HIV/AIDS epidemic, especially in communities of color, demands that we find newer and more creative ways to attract attention and engage people in frank discussions of what HIV and related issues mean to individuals and to communities."

"Kevin's Room 2" follows Kevin (Keith Butler) and his leadership of a support group for gay men of color, as well as glimpses into the lives of each character. "In producing the sequel, we made sure audiences could enjoy the storyline even if they didn't see the original," Branch explained. "And in this age of reality shows, we've added more drama and entertainment than some might expect from a health department. We've also added a new Latino character for another perspective." Branch has added another touch of reality, as the "Kevin's Room" series is her tribute to a friend who died from AIDS.

For more information on "Kevin's Room 2" or using the series as a community health education tool, call Witherspoon Marketing Group at (312) 360-9540.

SOURCE Chicago Department of Public Health

031218
PR031233

Copyright © 2003 - PRNewswire. All rights reserved. Reproduced with permission. Reproduction of this article (other than one copy for personal reference) must be cleared through PRNewswire, Permissions, 810 Seventh Ave., 32nd Floor, New York, NY 10019 http://www.prnewswire.com.

AEGiS is a 501(c)3, not-for-profit, tax-exempt, educational corporation. AEGiS is made possible through unrestricted funding from Broadway Cares/Equity Fights AIDS, Elton John AIDS Foundation, the National Library of Medicine, Pacific Life Foundation and donations from users like you.

Always watch for outdated information. This article first appeared in 2003. This material is designed to support, not replace, the relationship that exists between you and your doctor.

AEGiS presents published material, reprinted with permission and neither endorses nor opposes any material. All information contained on this website, including information relating to health conditions, products, and treatments, is for informational purposes only. It is often presented in summary or aggregate form. It is not meant to be a substitute for the advice provided by your own physician or other medical professionals. Always discuss treatment options with a doctor who specializes in treating HIV.

Copyright ©1980, 2003. AEGiS. All materials appearing on AEGiS are protected by copyright as a collective work or compilation under U.S. copyright and other laws and are the property of AEGiS, or the party credited as the provider of the content. .