Former Wales rugby captain, Gareth Thomas, has spoken out about the challenges his husband faces due to the stigma surrounding Gareth’s HIV status. Gareth revealed he was living with HIV in 2019 and has since been an active advocate for destigmatizing the virus. Despite being a trailblazer as the first openly gay professional rugby player and HIV-positive athlete, Gareth continues to witness discrimination towards him and his husband, Stephen Williams-Thomas.
In a recent interview with The Mirror, Gareth shared how the misconception about HIV has led to people treating his husband differently. He expressed his concerns about how society associates his HIV status with those around him, affecting his husband’s work and social life. Gareth highlighted the lack of understanding around HIV treatment and transmission, emphasizing that with proper medication, the virus cannot be transmitted through sexual contact.
Gareth has been actively involved in the Tackle HIV campaign, aiming to educate people about HIV and combat the associated stigma. He emphasised the need for continued education on HIV, recounting instances where he faced discrimination in everyday situations like restaurants. Despite leading a normal and healthy life with HIV and taking just one tablet a day, Gareth highlighted the persistent misconceptions and discrimination that people living with HIV endure.
Praising Prime Minister Keir Starmer for publicly taking an HIV test, Gareth commended such actions for helping reduce the stigma around testing. He stressed the importance of public figures using their platforms to raise awareness and encourage testing, ultimately working towards eradicating the stigma associated with HIV. Gareth underscored the ongoing need for role models in sports, especially for LGBTQ+ individuals, noting the limited number of openly gay male athletes in various sports.
Looking ahead, Gareth is collaborating with the Tackle HIV campaign on the Challenging Stigma Garden, set to be featured at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show. He believes this initiative will help reach a broader audience and continue to advocate against HIV stigma in a unique and engaging way. Gareth remains hopeful that such projects will contribute to education and awareness around HIV, fostering a more inclusive and understanding society.
As Gareth Thomas continues to navigate life as an HIV-positive individual and an outspoken advocate, he remains dedicated to challenging stereotypes and promoting acceptance. Through his activism and involvement in initiatives like the Challenging Stigma Garden, Gareth strives to create a more supportive and informed environment for those affected by HIV. His efforts serve as a reminder of the importance of empathy, education, and inclusivity in breaking down barriers and fostering a more compassionate society.