ABSTRACT
This chapter proposes that the manner in which HIV/AIDS knowledge has been and is produced, interpreted, and disseminated in the U.S. is consistent with a dominant negative sexual discourse that fails to consider the potential burden its structure imposes upon a significant portion of its population—women. More specifically, this type of knowledge production strengthens social marginalization, perpetuates stigma, and restricts female sexual agency. A different analysis could potentially yield a different interpretation that not only promotes an accurate public health discourse but also affirms those traditionally marginalized and frequently unheard.
