International Community of Women Living with HIV - North America

04/27/2026

ICW North America mourns the loss of SaVanna Wanzer...a beloved sister, leader, advocate, and daughter of Washington, DC, whose life was a testament to courage, vision, and unwavering love for her community. Savanna joined the board of ICW North America in 2020.

Born and raised in Petworth, SaVanna carried her city with her in everything she did. Even after being forced into early retirement following cardiac surgery, she did not slow down, she rose. With fierce determination, she brought to life spaces that had never existed before, creating TransPride in 2007 and May Is? All About Trans in 2017. These were not just events, they were movements. Designed by and for transgender, gender non-conforming, and nonbinary communities, they created sacred space for “Living, Loving, and Educating” one another. Through 31 days each May, SaVanna built platforms for conversations on HIV, PrEP, research, survival s*x, employment, mental health, and so much more—reaching thousands and transforming lives.

She never forgot the next generation, intentionally mentoring young people to become advocates for themselves and leaders in their own right. SaVanna believed deeply that inclusion meant everyone - with no exceptions—and she lived that belief boldly. As a trusted and pioneering voice, she served on boards such as Whitman-Walker Health and the Capital Pride Alliance, helping to shape institutions to better reflect and serve her community. Through partnerships across organizations, faith communities, healthcare systems, and beyond, she built bridges where others saw barriers.

SaVanna was a visionary, a builder, and a protector. Her work was recognized with numerous awards, but her true legacy lives in the lives she touched, the spaces she created, and the dignity she insisted upon for all.

SaVanna fought for the trans community in DC, ensuring visibility, inclusion, and representation in spaces like USCHA and beyond. She already earned her wings, because she used them here, to fly to those in distress, to cover those who were hurting, and to stand boldly as a voice for her people.

Sleep in heavenly peace and power.

02/11/2025

Missed last week's webinar? 🎥 Link to recording below! 📢
The webinar brought together members of the HIV community for a discussion on the recent Executive Orders that revealed both deep concern and remarkable resilience, with speakers offering emotional support alongside practical guidance.

Watch now and stay informed: https://youtu.be/pS6SJL8flGw

The webinar explores how the recent executive orders might affect people living with or impacted by HIV. We'll break down the implications for healthcare acc...

01/27/2025

Join us for a Webinar on: The Impact of the Executive Orders on the HIV Community! The webinar will explore how the recent executive orders might affect people living with or impacted by HIV. We'll break down the implications for healthcare access, stigma reduction, and community support. This session is open to all and aims to empower attendees with knowledge and resources.

DATE: Wednesday, February 5, 2025
TIME: 12:30 - 2:00 PM EST
REGISTRATION LINK: https://bit.ly/PP-Webinar-Feb

The Webinar is presented by International Community of Women Living with HIV - North America & Positive People.

The webinar is co-sponsored by U.S. PLHIV Caucus, The SERO Project, Positive Women's Network - USA, The Reunion Project, National Working Positive Coalition, AIDS United, and Unity Arc Advocacy Group. The Panel will include representatives from these organizations who will be equipped to answer questions and provide practical resources and support.

This event is also supported by ViiV Healthcare as part of the Positive Action for Women initiative.

Learn more and register at: https://bit.ly/PP-Webinar-Feb