In a world that often celebrates noise over substance, Nate Paxton Jr. stands out as a man of quiet strength and unwavering purpose. Rooted in faith, family, and a deep sense of responsibility, Nate doesn’t just show up—he shows up with intention. Whether mentoring young leaders, supporting community initiatives, or simply offering a listening ear, he brings compassion and clarity to every space he enters.
Nate is known not just for what he does, but for how he makes people feel—heard, valued, and inspired. His leadership is grounded in resilience and a commitment to growth, always striving to be better for himself, his loved ones, and the legacy he’s building. At his core, he’s a connector—someone who sees the potential in others and helps them rise.
That spirit of connection and purpose is the foundation of his nonprofit, Nick of Time.
The Mission Behind Nick of Time
Nick of Time was born out of a simple but powerful truth: too many student athletes in under-resourced communities are overlooked—not just in sports, but in life. Nate saw the gap and decided to build a bridge.
The organization’s mission is clear:
To mentor, guide, and advance the academic and athletic careers of underprivileged young student athletes. Through personalized mentorship programs, comprehensive educational support, and first-class marketing systems, Nick of Time creates scholarship opportunities and prepares youth for life beyond the game.
This isn’t just about getting recruited. It’s about being equipped—for college, for careers, for adulthood.
Vision for a Greater Future
Nick of Time envisions a world where student athletes aren’t defined solely by their performance on the field or court. Instead, they’re empowered to become professionals in whatever trade or endeavor they choose once their playing career ends.
By providing tools, resources, and mentorship, the organization helps young people transition from athletic identity to professional purpose. It’s about creating leaders—educated, equipped, and ready to succeed.
Who Nick of Time Serves
Male and female student athletes in low-resource environments
Youth from 8th to 12th grade
College athletes seeking career guidance beyond sports
These are young people who often lack exposure, guidance, and access. Nick of Time steps in to fill that gap—with heart, strategy, and consistency.
The Problem They’re Solving
Too many student athletes in underserved communities fall through the cracks. They have talent, drive, and dreams—but not the resources to turn those dreams into reality. Nick of Time is changing that.
By compiling academic and athletic resumes, gathering film, and distributing it to hundreds of coaches and universities weekly, the organization ensures each student finds the right fit. But it doesn’t stop there.
Weekly mentorship through Zoom calls, in-person meetups, seminars, and trips keeps students grounded and growing. Live events throughout the year bring speakers, career opportunities, and internships directly to them—building not just athletes, but professionals.
Live events with speakers and career/internship opportunities
Guidance for life after sports
This holistic approach ensures that every student is seen, supported, and set up for success.
Final Thoughts
Nate Paxton Jr. is building more than a nonprofit—he’s building a movement. One that says to every overlooked student athlete: You matter. Your future matters. And we’re here to help you claim it.
Nick of Time is proof that when purpose meets preparation, lives change. Communities transform. And legacies are born.
If you’re looking for a model of mentorship, leadership, and impact, look no further than Nate Paxton Jr. and the work he’s doing—right on time.
Please click on the link below and become a part of our family and growth:
A Historical Perspective: 18th, 19th, and 20th Centuries
18th Century: During the 18th century, Black people in America faced the brutal reality of slavery. Home ownership was an unattainable dream as they were considered property themselves. The lack of freedom and rights meant that building a community or owning property was impossible.
19th Century: The 19th century saw the end of slavery with the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863. However, the promise of “40 acres and a mule” was never fulfilled, leaving many freed Black people without land or resources. The rise of Jim Crow laws further restricted their rights, including the ability to own property. Despite these challenges, Black communities began to form, with a focus on mutual aid and support.
20th Century: The 20th century brought both progress and setbacks. The Great Migration saw millions of Black people move from the rural South to urban areas in the North, seeking better opportunities. However, discriminatory practices like redlining and restrictive covenants prevented many from purchasing homes in desirable neighborhoods. The Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s brought significant changes, but economic disparities and systemic racism continued to hinder Black home ownership.
Building a Community: The Importance of Family
A strong community is built on the foundation of family. By fostering close-knit relationships and supporting one another, Black people can create a sense of belonging and security. Home ownership plays a crucial role in this process, as it provides stability and a place for families to grow and thrive. When families own their homes, they have greater control over their environment and can ensure that their community remains safe and welcoming.
Controlling What Comes In and What Goes Out
Home ownership allows Black people to have a say in what enters and leaves their community. By owning property, they can influence local policies, support Black-owned businesses, and create spaces that reflect their culture and values. This control helps to preserve the integrity of the community and ensures that it remains a place where Black people can flourish.
Employment and the Value of Money
Economic empowerment is essential for taking back communities. By understanding the value of money and making informed financial decisions, Black people can build wealth and create opportunities for future generations. Home ownership is a key component of this process, as it provides a valuable asset that can appreciate over time. Additionally, supporting Black-owned businesses and pursuing entrepreneurship can help to create jobs and stimulate economic growth within the community.
Conclusion
Taking back Black communities requires a multifaceted approach that includes home ownership, building strong family ties, controlling the community’s environment, and fostering economic empowerment. By understanding the historical challenges and working together to overcome them, Black people can create thriving, self-sufficient communities that provide a better future for all.
As we step into the first quarter of 2025, the financial landscape is brimming with opportunities and challenges. In this edition of “Financial Insights,” we’ll explore the key financial trends for Q1, the best tools to grow your portfolio, and how to prepare financially for the evolving U.S. money markets.
Financial Trends for Q1 2025
Robust Economic Growth: The U.S. economy is expected to maintain a steady growth rate, with GDP projected to grow at 2.4%. This growth is driven by strong consumer spending and corporate profits, despite potential headwinds from global trade tensions.
Persistent Inflation: Inflation remains a concern, with rates expected to stay elevated. The Federal Reserve is likely to maintain a cautious approach to interest rate cuts, balancing the need to curb inflation while supporting economic growth.
Strong U.S. Dollar: The U.S. dollar is anticipated to remain strong, bolstered by higher interest rates and robust economic performance compared to other advanced economies.
Crypto Speculation: Cryptocurrency usage and speculation are set to intensify, with the approval of new crypto ETFs making it easier for retail investors to participate in the market.
Best Tools to Grow Your Portfolio
Empower: This free platform offers a comprehensive dashboard for tracking your investments, including stocks, bonds, retirement accounts, and more. It provides detailed investment visualizations and a fee analyzer to help you optimize your portfolio.
Portfolio Visualizer: Ideal for seasoned investors, this tool offers advanced back-testing, factor analysis, and Monte Carlo simulations to help you make informed investment decisions.
Morningstar Portfolio Manager: Known for its robust features, this tool allows you to evaluate your portfolio, find new investments, and access exclusive research tools.
Quicken: A versatile personal finance manager that helps you track your spending, saving, and investments in one place. It’s a great tool for managing multiple financial accounts and planning for the future.
Preparing Financially for the New U.S. Money Markets
Diversify Your Portfolio: With the potential for market volatility, it’s crucial to diversify your investments across different asset classes, including stocks, bonds, real estate, and commodities. This approach can help mitigate risks and enhance returns.
Stay Informed: Keep abreast of the latest economic policies and market trends. Understanding the implications of fiscal and monetary policies can help you make strategic financial decisions.
Focus on Long-Term Goals: While short-term market fluctuations can be unsettling, maintaining a long-term perspective is essential. Stick to your financial plan and make adjustments as needed based on your goals and risk tolerance.
Invest in Inflation-Hedging Assets: Consider adding assets that perform well during periods of high inflation, such as commodities and real estate, to your portfolio. These investments can help protect your purchasing power.
As we navigate the financial landscape of Q1 2025, staying informed and proactive is key to achieving your financial goals. By leveraging the right tools and strategies, you can grow your portfolio and prepare for the evolving U.S. money markets.
As the debate over the debt ceiling bill intensifies, the possibility of Congress failing to pass it looms large. The consequences of such a failure would be far-reaching, affecting every aspect of American life. This blog post explores the potential impacts on the American people, broken down by race, gender, family, and region, and highlights the possible suffering that could ensue.
Economic Turmoil and Financial Instability
If Congress fails to pass the debt ceiling bill, the U.S. government would be unable to meet its financial obligations, leading to a default. This would trigger a financial crisis, causing stock markets to plummet and interest rates to soar. The ripple effects would be felt across the economy, with businesses facing higher borrowing costs and consumers experiencing increased prices for goods and services.
Impact by Race
Black and Hispanic Communities: Historically marginalized communities would likely bear the brunt of the economic fallout. Black and Hispanic households, which already face higher unemployment rates and lower median incomes, would be disproportionately affected by job losses and reduced access to credit2. The wealth gap between these communities and their white counterparts would widen further, exacerbating existing inequalities.
White Communities: While white households generally have higher incomes and more wealth, they would not be immune to the economic downturn. Middle-class white families could see their savings and investments erode, and those living paycheck to paycheck would struggle to make ends meet.
Impact by Gender
Women: Women, particularly single mothers, would face significant challenges. Women are more likely to work in low-wage jobs and industries that are vulnerable to economic downturns. The loss of income and increased financial stress could lead to higher rates of poverty and food insecurity among women and their children.
Men: Men, especially those in blue-collar jobs, could also be severely impacted. Industries such as construction and manufacturing, which employ a large number of men, would likely see job cuts and reduced hours. This would lead to financial instability for many families reliant on these incomes.
Impact on Families
Low-Income Families: Families living below the poverty line would face the harshest consequences. With reduced access to social safety nets and increased costs of living, these families would struggle to afford basic necessities such as food, housing, and healthcare.
Middle-Class Families: The middle class would also feel the pinch. Savings and retirement accounts could take a hit, and the increased cost of borrowing could make it difficult for these families to finance major expenses such as home purchases or college education.
Regional Impact
Northeast: The Northeast, with its high cost of living and reliance on financial services, could see significant economic disruption. Job losses in the finance sector and increased living costs would strain households.
Midwest: The Midwest, known for its manufacturing base, could experience widespread job losses and economic stagnation. Communities dependent on manufacturing and agriculture would be particularly hard hit.
South: The South, with its higher poverty rates and lower median incomes, would face severe economic challenges. The region’s reliance on industries such as agriculture and energy could lead to significant job losses and financial instability.
West: The West, with its diverse economy, would also feel the impact. Tech hubs like Silicon Valley could see reduced investment, while rural areas dependent on agriculture and tourism could suffer from decreased economic activity.
Possible Suffering
The failure to pass the debt ceiling bill would lead to widespread suffering across the country. Families would face increased financial stress, with many struggling to afford basic necessities. The economic downturn could lead to higher rates of homelessness, food insecurity, and mental health issues. Communities already facing economic challenges would be pushed further into poverty, exacerbating existing inequalities.
Conclusion
The potential consequences of Congress failing to pass the debt ceiling bill are dire. The economic fallout would be felt across all demographics and regions, leading to widespread suffering and increased inequality. It is crucial for lawmakers to come together and pass the bill to prevent a financial catastrophe and protect the well-being of the American people.
As the Trump administration gears up for its second term in 2025, concerns are mounting about the potential negative impacts on America’s relationships with other countries, race relations within the country, the national debt, and the overall trust in government. This blog post delves into these issues and explores what needs to be done to prepare the American people for the 2028 election and the importance of down-ballot elections during the off years.
Strained International Relationships
The Trump administration’s foreign policy has been characterized by a unilateral approach, often alienating traditional allies and escalating tensions with adversaries. The administration’s aggressive stance on trade, particularly with China, is expected to continue, potentially leading to increased tariffs and trade wars. This could strain relationships with key trading partners and disrupt global markets.
Moreover, Trump’s “America First” policy may further isolate the United States on the international stage. The withdrawal from international agreements and organizations, such as the Paris Climate Accord and the World Health Organization, has already damaged America’s reputation as a global leader. Continued disengagement could weaken alliances and diminish the country’s influence in addressing global challenges.
Deteriorating Race Relations
Race relations in the United States have been a contentious issue, and the Trump administration’s rhetoric and policies have often exacerbated tensions. The administration’s stance on immigration, including mass deportations and restrictive policies, has disproportionately affected communities of color. Additionally, the lack of meaningful action to address police brutality and systemic racism has fueled protests and civil unrest.
The administration’s support for policies that undermine civil rights, such as attempts to ban critical race theory in schools and roll back protections for marginalized communities, further deepens racial divides. Without significant efforts to promote inclusivity and equity, race relations in the country are likely to worsen.
Escalating National Debt
The Trump administration’s economic policies, including tax cuts for the wealthy and increased military spending, have contributed to a growing national debt. The administration’s plans for further tax cuts and deregulation could exacerbate this issue, leading to higher deficits and long-term economic instability.
The potential for increased tariffs and trade wars could also negatively impact the economy, reducing revenue and increasing costs for American businesses and consumers. Addressing the national debt will require a balanced approach that includes responsible fiscal policies and investments in sustainable economic growth.
Misleading the American People
The Trump administration has been criticized for spreading misinformation and undermining public trust in government institutions. The administration’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, for example, was marked by conflicting messages and a lack of transparency. This pattern of misleading the public could continue, eroding confidence in government and democratic processes.
Preparing for the 2028 Election and Down-Ballot Elections
To address these challenges and prepare for the 2028 election, it is crucial for the American people to stay informed and engaged. Here are some steps to consider:
Stay Informed: Keep up with reliable news sources and fact-check information to stay informed about current events and policy changes.
Engage in Civic Activities: Participate in community meetings, town halls, and other civic activities to voice concerns and hold elected officials accountable.
Vote in Down-Ballot Elections: Down-ballot elections, which include local and state races, are critical for shaping policies that directly impact communities. Voting in these elections ensures that local leaders who align with your values are elected.
Support Grassroots Movements: Get involved with grassroots organizations that advocate for social justice, environmental protection, and other important issues.
Educate Others: Share information and encourage others to participate in the democratic process.
By taking these steps, the American people can work towards a more equitable and just society, ensuring that their voices are heard in the 2028 election and beyond.
In the landscape of American politics, African Americans have historically aligned with the Democratic Party, believing it to be the champion of civil rights and social justice. However, the reality of unfulfilled promises and systemic neglect has led many to question whether this allegiance is still beneficial. As we confront the myriad challenges facing the African American community, it may be time to consider the establishment of a new political party that truly represents our interests and aspirations.
The Democratic Party: A Track Record of Unmet Promises
While the Democratic Party has made significant strides in advocating for civil rights, the effectiveness of these efforts has often fallen short. Here are several reasons why many African Americans feel let down by the party:
Failure to Address Systemic Inequities: Despite the Democratic Party’s claims to support racial equity, systemic issues like police brutality, housing discrimination, and economic inequality remain pervasive. The lack of concrete policy changes to address these problems fosters skepticism about their commitment to the African American community.
Unfulfilled Promises on Voting Rights: The Democratic Party has continuously campaigned on promises to safeguard and expand voting rights. Nevertheless, with critical legislation like the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act stalled in Congress, many feel that their voices are being suppressed rather than protected.
Inadequate Economic Support: The economic fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic disproportionately impacted African Americans, yet the Democratic response has been perceived as insufficient. Promises of increased support for small businesses, job creation, and economic empowerment have not materialized in meaningful ways.
Neglecting Educational Equity: Education is a cornerstone for upward mobility, yet many predominantly Black schools remain underfunded. The Democratic Party has not prioritized policies that would ensure equitable funding and resources for these schools, leaving many children behind.
Health Disparities: African Americans continue to face significant health disparities, but initiatives to expand access to affordable healthcare have been lackluster. The Democratic Party’s inability to advocate for comprehensive healthcare reforms that specifically address these disparities is a glaring omission.
The Republican Party: A Divisive Alternative
While some may argue that the Republican Party offers an alternative, the reality is that this party often perpetuates racial divides and promotes rhetoric that is harmful to African Americans:
Promotion of Racial Divisiveness: The Republican Party has often used racially charged language and policies to rally their base. This approach not only alienates African Americans but also perpetuates systemic racism within the political landscape.
False Promises and Disillusionment: Republican leaders often present themselves as champions of opportunity and empowerment for African Americans. However, their policies, like tax cuts and deregulation, disproportionately benefit the wealthy and corporations while neglecting the needs of marginalized communities.
Tokenism and Lack of Genuine Representation: While some African Americans have found a place within the Republican Party, their representation often feels more like tokenism than a genuine commitment to addressing the concerns of the broader community. This superficial inclusion fails to result in substantive change.
Focus on Culture Wars: The Republican Party often centers its platform around culture wars that distract from the economic and social issues that truly affect African Americans. These distractions serve to divide rather than unite, leaving critical problems unaddressed.
The Need for an Independent African American Political Party
Given the shortcomings of both major parties, there is a growing sentiment that African Americans need to establish their own political party. Here are key reasons why this is essential:
Authentic Representation: An independent party can prioritize the voices, needs, and aspirations of the African American community, ensuring that policies are tailored to address systemic inequities.
Focused Policy Agenda: A new party could advocate for a clear and targeted policy agenda, including robust voting rights protections, equitable education funding, criminal justice reform, and economic empowerment initiatives.
Empowerment through Unity: A dedicated political party would encourage greater civic engagement and unity within the African American community, fostering collective action toward shared goals.
Breaking the Cycle of Dependency: By forming an independent party, African Americans can break free from the cycle of reliance on the Democratic Party, demanding accountability and tangible results from any political affiliation.
Building Strategic Alliances: An independent party could collaborate with other marginalized groups and movements to amplify voices and create a more inclusive coalition for social justice.
Conclusion: A Call to Action
As the political landscape continues to evolve, African Americans must reflect on the efficacy of their current affiliations and consider the potential of establishing an independent party that genuinely champions their interests. In a time when both major parties have failed to deliver on critical promises, the formation of a new political entity could provide a path toward empowerment, accountability, and authentic representation. The time has come for African Americans to take control of their political destiny. By uniting under a party that prioritizes their needs and aspirations, they can forge a more equitable future for themselves and generations to come.
As we approach the dawn of a new decade, the trajectory of our democracy raises alarm bells reminiscent of dystopian literature. While once a beacon of hope and liberty, the democratic ideals we cherish are increasingly tarnished by systemic corruption and unchecked criminal activities. The situation is becoming dire—where the very institutions meant to protect and serve the people have devolved into machinery of tyranny, leaving the most vulnerable in a state of perpetual fear and insecurity.
The Landscape of a Destroyed Democracy
Imagine stepping into the year 2030, a time when the fabric of our democracy has been irreparably frayed. The government has become a fortress for criminals, where elected officials collude with organized crime syndicates to exploit the populace for their gain. Corruption is no longer an aberration but the norm, with backdoor deals and bribery accepted as standard operating procedure. The government has turned against its citizens, and the social contract that binds us has been shattered. In this bleak future, the justice system—once a pillar of democracy—has become an impotent entity, unable to carry out its foundational duty of safeguarding justice. Law enforcement, compromised by bureaucratic inefficiencies and overt corruption, has transformed into an extension of the very criminal elements it was meant to combat. Crime rates soar unchecked, and the streets are ruled by fear-driven chaos. Citizens find themselves in a war zone, unable to defend their rights, their properties, or even their lives.
The Erosion of Civil Liberties and Rise of Authoritarianism
As rampant criminality and governmental corruption fester, so too do the erosions of civil liberties. The people, desperate for safety and security, turn to authoritarian solutions. Militarized police patrol the streets, and surveillance becomes pervasive, justifying the invasion of privacy under the guise of public safety. In this world, dissent is crushed, and voices of opposition silenced. The very essence of democracy—freedom of speech, the right to protest, and the ability to criticize the government—becomes a distant memory.
A Society Torn Apart by Racial Division
Perhaps the most insidious outcome of this deteriorating democracy is the exacerbation of racial tensions. As systemic inequalities deepen, racism evolves into a virulent force—what can only be described as “Racism on Steroids.” Socioeconomic disparities widen, with minority communities bearing the brunt of government neglect and police brutality. Discrimination is not only institutionalized but also normalized within the societal fabric. In this fractured society, racial profiling becomes routine, and marginalized groups find themselves disproportionately targeted by law enforcement. Public spaces become battlegrounds where the oppressed fight for their dignity amidst rampant hostility. Propaganda and divisive rhetoric from those in power further fuel the flames of hatred, perpetuating an environment where unity is impossible, and community bonds are shattered.
The Psychological Toll of a Broken Democracy
The psychological impact on citizens living in this reality is immense. Anxiety, distrust, and despair become the mental currency of the populace. People grapple with the haunting question: “Who can I trust?” As the government betrays its responsibility, the community’s social fabric begins to unravel. Support systems collapse, and individuals are left to fend for themselves in a hostile world. The psychological scars of living under a regime of fear can take generations to heal, if they ever do.
The Path Forward: A Call to Action
As we reflect on this potential future, we must recognize the urgency of our current situation. The warning signs of a democracy in decline are all around us. We must take action now to stave off this dystopian fate. This begins with holding our elected officials accountable, demanding transparency, and pushing for systemic reforms that prioritize the needs of the people over the interests of the powerful. Community engagement and grassroots movements must rise to counteract the destructive forces at play. By fostering dialogue and understanding among diverse groups, we can begin to mend the fractures in our society. Only by standing together can we reclaim our democracy from the clutches of corruption and ensure that future generations inherit a society that values justice, equality, and unity. In this pivotal moment, let us choose to fight for a future that aligns with the ideals of democracy rather than one that succumbs to chaos, division, and despair. The time to act is now, for the future of our democracy depends on it.
In 2024, the United States witnessed a series of tragic hangings that have once again brought to light the deep-seated racial animosity towards Black people in America. These incidents are not just isolated acts of violence but are reflective of a broader, systemic issue that continues to plague the nation. The names of the victims and the circumstances surrounding their deaths serve as a stark reminder of the work that still needs to be done to achieve true racial equality.
Victims of 2024
Among the victims of these heinous acts were:
Willie James Pye: Executed on March 20, 2024, in Georgia.
Keith Edmund Gavin: Executed on July 18, 2024, in Alabama.
Freddie Eugene Owens: Executed on September 20, 2024, in South Carolina.
Emmanuel Antonio Littlejohn: Executed on September 26, 2024, in Oklahoma.
Garcia Glen White: Executed on October 1, 2024, in Texas.
Richard Bernard Moore: Executed on November 1, 2024, in South Carolina.
These individuals were among the 21 people executed in the United States in 2024, with a significant number being Black men. The racial disparities in the application of the death penalty are glaring, with Black individuals disproportionately represented on death row and among those executed.
Racial Animosity and Its Impact
The racial animosity towards Black people in America is not a new phenomenon. It is deeply rooted in the country’s history, from the era of slavery to the Jim Crow laws, and continues to manifest in various forms today. The hangings of 2024 are a grim reminder of this ongoing issue. These acts of violence are not just about the individuals who were executed but are indicative of a broader societal problem.
The impact of such racial violence on the Black community is profound. It perpetuates a cycle of fear, trauma, and mistrust towards the justice system and society at large. The emotional and psychological toll on the families and communities of the victims is immeasurable. Moreover, these incidents highlight the urgent need for systemic reforms to address racial disparities in the criminal justice system.
Statistical Analysis and Future Outlook
The statistics surrounding racial violence and the death penalty in the United States paint a troubling picture. According to data, Black individuals make up approximately 12.47% of the US population but are disproportionately represented among those executed. This disparity is a clear indication of the racial biases that exist within the justice system.
Looking ahead to 2025, the likelihood of continued racial violence remains high unless significant changes are made. The systemic issues that contribute to racial disparities in the application of the death penalty and other forms of violence must be addressed. This includes comprehensive reforms in policing, sentencing, and the overall criminal justice system.
Conclusion
The hangings of 2024 serve as a stark reminder of the racial animosity that continues to exist in America. The names of the victims and the circumstances of their deaths highlight the urgent need for systemic reforms to address racial disparities and ensure justice for all. As we move forward, it is crucial to acknowledge these issues and work towards creating a society where racial violence is no longer a reality.
In a major stride for HIV prevention, the Biden administration announced recently that long-acting injectable PrEP, sold as Apretude by ViiV Healthcare, will now be covered without cost-sharing under the Affordable Care Act (ACA). This policy shift is significant in making HIV prevention tools more accessible. However, for many Black Americans and those living in rural areas, barriers to healthcare persist, limiting the full potential of this policy change.
The Disparity in Access to PrEP
While this new policy represents progress, the reality is that Black people—who are disproportionately affected by HIV—are still underrepresented among those using PrEP. Despite making up over 40% of new HIV diagnoses in the U.S., only about 11% of PrEP users are Black, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). These numbers reveal the systemic barriers that exist: financial challenges, healthcare access gaps, and lingering stigma that keep many from obtaining life-saving medication.
In States Like Georgia, Where Medicaid Has Yet to Expand, HIV Rates Remain Alarmingly High
In states like Georgia, where Medicaid has yet to expand under the Affordable Care Act (ACA), HIV infection rates remain among the highest in the nation. The consequences of this policy decision are staggering. According to the most recent CDC surveillance data from 2023, Georgia reported over 2,674 new HIV diagnoses, placing it at the forefront of the ongoing HIV epidemic in the United States.
Despite widespread advances in treatment, Georgia’s healthcare system continues to face significant challenges, particularly in achieving viral suppression among its population living with HIV. Roughly 72% of people living with HIV in the state have not reached viral suppression, a rate well above the national average of 58%. This failure not only heightens the risk of HIV transmission but also places Georgia’s most vulnerable populations in an untenable situation.
The city of Atlanta, in particular, bears the brunt of this crisis. Recent data from the CDC, the Georgia Department of Public Health, and AIDSVu place Atlanta as third in the nation for the highest number of people living with HIV, trailing only Miami and New York City. In specific communities, particularly those with large Black and Brown populations, infection rates are comparable to those seen in regions of sub-Saharan Africa. In some areas of Atlanta, the prevalence of HIV mirrors the situation in countries like South Africa or Eswatini, where access to healthcare resources remains limited and the virus continues to pose significant public health challenges.
In contrast, states like Louisiana, which expanded Medicaid in 2016, have seen significant improvements in their public health outcomes related to HIV. Louisiana’s experience demonstrates the impact that Medicaid expansion can have on populations affected by HIV. According to the Louisiana Department of Health, viral suppression rates in the state rose from 63% in 2016 to 82% by 2022, and new diagnoses dropped by 20%. Louisiana’s expansion allowed thousands more residents to access crucial services, including PrEP—pre-exposure prophylaxis, a life-saving medication that helps prevent HIV transmission.
However, in Georgia, thousands of residents remain uninsured and unable to afford these same preventative measures. The failure to adopt Medicaid expansion in the state has created a vacuum in the healthcare system, leaving vulnerable populations without the necessary tools to protect themselves or manage their conditions. This gap in coverage disproportionately affects Georgia’s Black and Brown communities, where socioeconomic factors exacerbate existing health disparities.
The lack of access to PrEP in Georgia is especially concerning. PrEP has been widely recognized as one of the most effective tools in preventing HIV transmission, but without access to affordable healthcare, many Georgians are unable to benefit from it. In states that have embraced Medicaid expansion, PrEP has been made more readily available to populations at risk, resulting in significant reductions in new HIV infections.
The contrast between Georgia and states like Louisiana underscores a broader public health failure. While Medicaid expansion has been proven to improve health outcomes and reduce the spread of HIV, Georgia remains one of the 10 states that have resisted expanding coverage. This resistance leaves the state’s residents at a higher risk of HIV transmission and prevents thousands of people from achieving viral suppression, perpetuating a cycle of preventable infections.
The urgency of this crisis cannot be overstated. Georgia’s decision not to expand Medicaid is contributing to an ongoing public health catastrophe. Without bold action from state leaders and policymakers, the state will continue to fall behind in addressing one of the most pressing healthcare issues of our time.
As the evidence from Louisiana shows, Medicaid expansion is not just a policy choice—it is a life-saving measure. By expanding access to healthcare, Georgia could prevent new infections, improve viral suppression rates, and offer a path forward for thousands of people living with HIV. The stakes are high, and the time for action is now.
The current situation in Georgia should serve as a wake-up call to policymakers and healthcare leaders across the country. As the state grapples with the consequences of inaction, the need for comprehensive healthcare reform becomes clearer with each passing day. Until Georgia expands Medicaid and prioritizes HIV prevention and care, it will continue to suffer the consequences of a public health system that leaves too many behind.
Breaking Barriers: The Role of PrEP in HIV Prevention
PrEP, or pre-exposure prophylaxis, is a critical tool in preventing the spread of HIV. For those at higher risk, particularly in marginalized communities, PrEP offers a way to stay HIV-negative. Yet, too few people who could benefit from this treatment are using it. Barriers such as cost, geographic location, and a lack of healthcare providers familiar with HIV prevention often make it difficult to access.
Take Darrell, a sex worker who faced significant barriers to accessing PrEP in his rural community. Before the Affordable Care Act mandated expanded access, Darrell, who knew he was at higher risk for HIV, couldn’t afford PrEP or find local clinics that offered it.
“I remember feeling like I had no options,” Darrell shares. “I was in an industry where the risk was high, but I didn’t have the resources to protect myself. Once I was able to get on PrEP, everything changed. I’m HIV-negative today, and I’m living my life without fear.”
Darrell’s story is not unique. Thousands of Black Americans, particularly in rural areas, face similar struggles. Even with the Biden administration’s new policy, ensuring access for everyone remains a significant challenge.
Rural America and the Gaps in Healthcare Access
The barriers to healthcare are particularly stark in rural communities.
In these areas, healthcare providers familiar with HIV prevention are few, and geographic isolation makes it harder for people to reach the services they need. For many, even if PrEP is available at no cost, they may still need to travel long distances to find a clinic or pharmacy that offers it.
This problem is compounded by many pharmacies in rural areas lacking the infrastructure to bill for Medicare Part B, which now covers injectable PrEP. The gap in services is a serious barrier to ensuring that rural residents, many of whom are Black or LGBTQ+, can benefit from the new policy.
States like Mississippi and Alabama—which have some of the highest rates of new HIV infections in the U.S.—are prime examples of the challenges rural populations face. In Mississippi, for example, less than 5% of those who could benefit from PrEP are currently using it, reflecting a critical need to address these access gaps.
Dr. Michael Saag from the University of Alabama at Birmingham’s 1917 Clinic highlights how stigma and long distances are key challenges: “People want to avoid being seen at clinics known for HIV care, so many end up traveling to other cities for privacy.” In Mississippi, Dr. Robert Brock of UMMC explains that patients may travel over 50 miles to find the nearest pharmacy or clinic capable of providing HIV treatment.
To address these gaps, programs like mobile testing units and expanded telemedicine have been instrumental in reducing the burden of travel and increasing access to care. Policy changes to better support rural pharmacies and clinics can also help ensure that residents in these underserved regions receive the care they need without the barriers of distance and stigma.
To be continued in Part Two…
“Miles Apart Confronting Stigma and Barriers in HIV Care for Rural America”
Dash Daggs
Community Activist | Business Consultant | Writer Director of Development & CommunicationPower Atlanta Inc.
“Empowering communities, one step at a time, for a future where every voice matters.” Email: poweredbydash@gmail.com
Please read this article because I know you know someone living with HIV. I want to thank Dash for writing this article and giving this update alluding to Public Health. This is so important.
In recent years, the discourse around Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and Affirmative Action has intensified, particularly following significant legal and political shifts. The Supreme Court’s decision to end race-conscious admissions has sparked debates about the future of DEI initiatives and their impact on non-White communities. This blog post delves into why the absence of Affirmative Action, even in the presence of DEI programs, can perpetuate systemic racism and adversely affect non-White individuals.
Psychological Impact: The lack of Affirmative Action can also have a psychological toll on non-White individuals, who may feel that their struggles and the historical context of their marginalization are being ignored. This can lead to decreased morale and a sense of alienation3.
The Role of DEI in the Absence of Affirmative Action
Bias Training and Education: DEI programs can educate individuals about unconscious biases and promote more inclusive behaviors.
Mentorship and Support Networks: Establishing mentorship programs and support networks can help non-White individuals navigate environments that may still be biased against them.
Policy Advocacy: DEI initiatives can advocate for policies that promote equity and inclusion, even in the absence of Affirmative Action.
Conclusion
The elimination of Affirmative Action, even with robust DEI programs, can perpetuate systemic racism and negatively impact non-White communities. While DEI initiatives are essential for fostering an inclusive environment, they must be complemented by policies like Affirmative Action that directly address historical and systemic inequities. To create a truly equitable society, it is crucial to understand the distinct roles of DEI and Affirmative Action and advocate for their coexistence.
Changing Trends and Times 