I wanted to post this as a comment on Cathy's post with that Time article, but I think this deserves it's own post. Some scientists and studies that actually show condom promotion in Africa isn't all it's cracked up to be and too many people, especially here in the US are mislead. In fact, condom promotion has made the AIDs epidemic even worse in countries where US (and other international) money have been poured into.
"Harvard Researcher agrees with Pope on condoms in Africa"
Thanks to Peter Liao!
I have heard of the Red project where companies donate money to "help fight AIDs in Africa." I haven't seen it around, but I'd be REALLY wary of it before contributing. There are already a number of UN and other organizations (I think USAID as well) that's already dumped millions of dollars worth of condoms to Africa already. Not to say we should be afraid to donate to worthy causes, but make sure they're truly worthy in what they aim to do (ends) as well as HOW they want to do them (means). Or else we may actually be making the problem worse.
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I agree completely!
I wanted to bring it up because sometimes we unknowingly contribute to these "campaigns" that we think will help certain causes, but they actually spread the problems more!!
Just take product red for example. Gap, Dell, Microsoft, Apple are all "supporters" of donating their proceeds to HIV/AIDS programs. But how does it work? First, they spend a large chunk of money marketing so you KNOW they are "doing good." Then, they hike up prices of these products that are (red) so you will buy them. Then, they donate a portion of the PROFIT to Africa. It's a win-win situation for these companies because 1) they get recognition for being nice 2) they generate more sales/revenue from an 'extra' line of products
Ok, so the money eventually ends up in Africa, and they get to help with the HIV/AIDS epidemic. Where does it go?? The majority actually goes to clinics' budgets to purchase condoms! What do condoms do? Make the HIV/AIDS problem even worse because it doesn't get rid of the root of the sin: lack of self-control.
Oh, and one more thing, people shouldn't be afraid to post with their names on this blog. All comments are welcome!
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