Betty Irabor On Hiv

I just saw this story and thought to share with Nairalanders.

In a recent edition of Genevieve Magazine, Betty Irabor, the acclaimed editor, in her editor's note referred to an incident that occurred when shooting the cover of the March 2007 Edition of the magazine which featured HIV-Positive mother and activist, Yinka Jegede-Ekpe. Please read the following link i got from a blog

http://bp2.blogger.com/_IfL2RoqAOoQ/RnAjQ1qxydI/AAAAAAAAAvE/XZiHJL3sIf0/s1600-h/Betty_Irabor__Morning_Dew_June_07.JPG

The article caused a stir and forced Betty Irabor to issue and apology. Please see following link

http://www.genevievemag.com/morning.htm


Now, the question is,  why did such a respected journalist display the attitude she did, considering the fact that she had invited the lady in question for a shoot.?

While she did not mean any harm, the article in itself was insensitive and thus highlights the plight and social stigma faced by PLWHA (People living with HIV/AIDS).  There is also need for more education about HIV/AIDS and about the effects of discrimination against these people. They are not second class citizens.

With educated and knowledgeable people like Betty exhibiting such ignorant attitudes, what do we expect from the lay man? Of course, this kind of articles makes it even harder for people especially women(who are the target group for the Mag) to go for testing or even reveal their HIV status.

However, the article also highlights the need to be careful with issues such as the use of shared objects such as blades, clippers in places like salons, barbers etc in public places.

The lady in question was said to have been infected through the unhygienic practices of her dentist in 1997. She was a nursing student and had to fight for her right to continue her education when she revealed her status. She was 19. she is currently married to a man that is also HIV positive.

What are your thoughts on this article? Was Betty just reacting normally or was she out of line?

I can say she didnt mean any harm. Its only natural for one to react like that. If i were in her shoes i would definately do the same. Hairdressers are very careless, i can imagine contacting HIV from the saloon. WOULD DEFINATELY KILL THE PARTICULAR HAIR DRESSER. I went to a saloon here in lag and the hairdresser was using a used razor to  loosen someones weave-on. When i asked why? she replied "No be just thread sister, i no touch the head" what if a mistake occurs?? million dollar question. For those who loosen their weave-on in the saloon,  be careful too. The essence of Betty's message is for all to be aware and be careful, nothing should be taken for granted. I do not see it as discriminatory. Caution thats all she is preaching.

she has retracted the statement, production mix up, haba

I read ds particular editorial. Betty really goofed. Bt what crossed my mind when reading that piece was dt no matter how enlightened, educated, exposed we are on d issue of PLWHA, d cultural aspect of our lives wil  stil come into play as betty displayed. What i faulted her is dt she could have displayed a simple tact!

You are right. A simple tact would have helped. She didn't even need to relate the story to herself. But at least she was honest about her feelings even though they were not "politically correct"

ma dear she did want an average Nigerian would do if it were them.i dnt think she would make a stupid comment knowing how much t would hurt the other people. that What they call REFLEX