Hiv/aids Immigration Ban Finally Lifted
HIV/AIDS IMMIGRATION BAN FINALLY LIFTED
In 1987, in the midst of worldwide fear and panic over the AIDS epidemic, the U.S. set in place an immigration ban to prevent anyone with AIDS from entering the country. This drastic measure was taken largely a result of the erroneous belief that HIV/AIDS could be transmitted through physical contact. The U.S. was one of a short list of 12 countries that banned those with the virus.
Twenty-two years later, the ban has finally been lifted. On October 30th 2009 the President signed the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Treatment Extension Act of 2009. This was the final step in a process that began under the Bush administration. The law's standard 60-day waiting period ended early this month and the Act is now officially in effect.
President Obama said the ban was incompatible with U.S. efforts to lead the way in fighting the disease. Unquestionably, reaching out a hand to help others is difficult when you are holding the door shut with the other hand. The ban was serving to perpetuate the HIV/AIDS stigma. Now with more welcoming laws in place, the U.S. will be hosting a bi-annual global HIV/AIDS summit in 2012.
The ban has prevented travelers, tourists, potential immigrants, from entering the country. It has also prevented international adoption of children with the virus. From now on, no one will be required to undergo the HIV/AIDS test to determine their eligibility to enter the country.
Advocates say that the ban has discouraged foreign-born residents living in the U.S. from being tested or seeking medical treatment for HIV/AIDS. If this is the case, these individuals will now be free to seek treatment without fear of losing their immigration status simply for having the virus.
Now with the strings of hypocrisy untied, the Obama administration is free to pursue the mandate of the Ryan White HIV/AIDS Treatment Extension Act of 2009 which is to provide ongoing commitment to ensuring access to much needed HIV/AIDS care and treatment.
If you are a person is now free to travel or immigrate to the U.S. as a result of the lifting of this ban, you may wish to consult a qualified immigration lawyer to discuss your visa or immigration options. Contact United States Immigration Support website at www.USAimmigrationSupport.com.
