In this episode, we’re joined by Marc Thompson. Marc has a very impressive past, he was a co-founder of PrEPster, a pivotal organisation that advocated for the life-changing drug PrEP. Marc has also worked for the NHS, Terrence Higgins Trust, Gay Men Fighting AIDS, Big Up, and Positively UK. Today he continues his work as the Lead Commissioner of the London HIV Prevention Programme, a health promotion specialist, award-winning podcaster (no pressure) and LGBTQ+ archivist. For over 30 years, he has worked at the forefront of HIV and LGBTQ+ advocacy, focusing particularly on Black and queer communities.
Together, we travel back to 1985, a time marked by police raids on gay bars, homophobic media narratives, violence, and the looming HIV epidemic that would devastate a generation. From then Marc reflects on what has changed, what hasn’t and what that means for the future of LGBTQ+ communities.
Drawing on over three decades of experience in HIV and LGBTQ+ advocacy, Marc shares his personal journey, from coming out and receiving his HIV diagnosis, to challenging systems where he didn’t see himself represented, particularly as a black gay man.
If the issues raised in this episode resonate with you, find out more about the work we're doing to protect LGBTQ+ rights and how you can get involved: ▶️ https://www.stonewall.org.uk/get-involved/campaign-with-us
✨ In this episode:
What’s changed, and what hasn’t, since 1985, from the HIV crisis to today’s LGBTQ+ landscape
The importance of solidarity, collective action and rebuilding real community spaces
Why centring black and brown queer voices remains critical in HIV prevention and advocacy
The shift to digital communities
Balancing activism with wellbeing, harnessing productive anger while making space for joy
🎧 Mentions & links:
Black and gay back in the day - https://www.instagram.com/blackandgaybackintheday/
Let’s rap photo - https://www.instagram.com/p/CMy-ftvFGDT/
Revolutionary Acts – Book by Jason Okundaye
How Queer Bookshops Changed the World – Book by AJ West
The Log Books – Book by Tash Walker and Adam Zmith
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Proudly in Conversation is a Stonewall production. Jingle by legendary rock band @EMF.
