Indigenous HIV/AIDS in the Context of ‘Post-AIDS’ Discourse

The aim of this chapter is to enhance an understanding of experiences of health among Indigenous Peoples living with HIV and/or AIDS in a “post-AIDS” world. The disproportionate effect of HIV/AIDS and related poor health outcomes among Indigenous Peoples around the world deserves particular attention, so as to address the interdependent cultural and structural factors that influence the health and wellbeing of Indigenous Populations. Despite many analyses acknowledging the health inequities of Indigenous People as resulting from concomitant colonial forces, much of this research offers limited accounts from wealthy settler nations (e.g., U.S., Canada, New Zealand, and Australia) and does not theorize the concept of “post-AIDS” in relation to Indigenous health experiences. In this chapter, we synthesize 14 qualitative studies that address Indigenous Peoples of the Americas living with HIV and/or AIDS to discuss the health implications for Indigenous Peoples in the context of contemporary “post-AIDS” discourse. We suggest the ways that “post-AIDS” mechanizes as a colonial project to further marginalize Indigenous health. We conclude with practical suggestions for understanding and addressing the synergistic colonial forces that influence Indigenous health within a “post-AIDS” context.