10 Years of Black Brothers Esteem

Founded in 1997, Black Brothers Esteem (BBE) is one of SFAF's longest-running HIV prevention programs. BBE serves both HIV-positive and negative African American gay, bisexual, and same-gender-loving men who live in the Tenderloin and 6th Street corridor of San Francisco. Many men living in these areas experience high rates of violence, poverty, substance use, and disease.

Over the past 10 years, BBE has grown from a weekly support group with about 10 members to a comprehensive program serving more than 400 through drop-in discussion groups, leadership retreats, cultural outings, workshops, community-wide social events, volunteer opportunities, peer health advocacy, mentoring, and community outreach.

BBE's goal is to help members build the necessary knowledge, skills, and support systems to make significant improvements in their overall health, including reducing the risk of contracting or transmitting HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and addressing substance use and mental health issues. The program also encourages members to share what they have learned with others, demonstrating that African American gay, bisexual, and same-gender-loving men are positive "agents of change" within their communities.

Long-time member Maurice says: "When I came to BBE 10 years ago, I was addicted to drugs, had a criminal record and not even a high school education. Now, because of BBE, I have been clean and sober for seven years, received a certificate as a Health Educator from City College, and am employed full-time as an HIV outreach and workshop coordinator. Instead of taking from the system, I am giving back."

BBE's primary strength is that the members themselves guide the program's activities. Additionally, the entire staff consists of African American gay men, reinforcing the cultural relevance of the program and its goal to be "by and for" African American gay, bisexual, and same-gender-loving men. Norman Tanner, a charter member, describes BBE as his family. "I feel close to the brothers and staff of BBE. They're always there to love me, support me, and keep me real."

Despite BBE's lengthy history and growth, African American gay men continue to be disproportionately impacted by HIV--both in San Francisco and nationally. A recent study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in five major U.S. cities concluded that a shocking 46 percent of African American men who have sex with men are HIV-positive. In San Francisco, that figure is an alarming 30 percent. BBE knows that it still has a lot of work to do.

BBE's services and accomplishments continue to grow. Within the past year, members have created a brochure providing information about culturally competent health-care resources for African American gay men in San Francisco. Brothers created a photography exhibit in collaboration with the 6th Street Photo Workshop, learning basic camera skills in order to take hundreds of pictures depicting the positive ways in which they take care of their health. Curated by Dr. Micah Lubensky, BBE Community Development Manager, the photos were displayed in Tenderloin and SoMa art galleries and can currently be seen at SFAF's offices and on our Web site.

The photography project has had an incredible impact on the members and the community. Tomas, new to BBE, says: "One of my photos involved going to the Golden Gate Bridge. I was glad to go there with my brothers because it wasn't long ago that I contemplated suicide from that same bridge. Now, through BBE I have a connection to others and a reason to take care of my health so that I can live as long as possible."

To participate in BBE, call the events line 415.487.8018 or visit www.sfaf.org/bbe.