Liu Shi: Surviving as a gay and HIV carrier

Liu Shi gives a speech at an HIV/AIDS event. [Photo/btime.com]

Open to the public

In October 2012, Liu began working part-time in a volunteer group in Shanxi Province. During the following eight months, hestudied how to detectthe HIV virus and helped others do their own checks, as well as how to take care of HIV carriers.

In August 2013, Liu began full-time work in a HIV/AIDS public welfare organization in Beijing. One month later, he became an Internet hit after standing at a Beijing street holding a slogan, saying “AIDS Victim Seeks Marriage,” on Qixi Festival, the Chinese Valentine's Day.

“I was surprised but proud seeing all the news websites writing about me,” Liu said, “I’m very happy working in our group. We can encourage each other.”

However, Liu also confessed that if he hadn’t had a job in a public welfare organization, he would probably not have had the courage to speak out in public about his illness. “If I didn’t have my company as a backup, I would not be brave enough to stand out,” he said, adding that one person’s power is too weak to face all the social pressures and discrimination.

“Although my salary is only 5,000-6,000 yuan (US$726-871) each month, I’m proud that I can feed myself in a big city while suffering such an illness,” said Liu.