Wisconsin HIV/AIDS History Project

The Wisconsin HIV/AIDS History Project brings to light significant stories from the state’s history of HIV/AIDS through the medium of oral histories. This collection includes video interviews with physicians, nurses, social service workers, AIDS Resource Center of Wisconsin (ARCW) staff, and long-time survivors. 

The interviews were conducted by Dr. Linda Wesp between 2017-2018. The interviewees reflect on the emergence of HIV/AIDS and the stigma associated with the disease, address prevention and treatment methods throughout the years, and illuminate Wisconsin’s unique approach to HIV/AIDS care.

Dr. Wesp, who earned her Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing at UW-Milwaukee, has been providing clinical care for LGBTQ populations since 2002. She is a certified HIV specialist and nationally known expert in transgender health care. She received the UW-Milwaukee Chancellor's Award in 2017-2018 and a UW-Milwaukee College of Nursing Community-Engaged Practice Award in 2022.  Today, she is an assistant professor in the UW-M School of Nursing.

The UWM Archives holds the Wisconsin HIV/AIDS History Project Collection, including 23 oral history interview videos and a compilation video.

All assets are viewable on-demand at the UWM Libraries website.