PWNVotes is PWN-USA’s approach to building long-term political power that advances racial, gender, and reproductive justice, transforming systems and shifting narratives by engaging our members, allies, and communities in conversations about the issues that matter most to people living with HIV.

We are clear, voting will not get us to liberation. It is but one tactic to leverage our collective power. But when legislators are finding more ways to strip away our voice and our rights, we must continue to use every tool we have to demonstrate our power and fight back. Your vote is your voice, use it!

Since 2016, PWN-USA has led voter mobilization efforts across the country to elevate issues impacting our communities. Our members have spearheaded voter campaigns in PA, CO, and TX, paying over 200 plhiv and allies for their work since 2020.

In 2024 alone, we had more than 30,000 conversations with voters in PA, CO, and TX, thousands of whom support the issues we fight for, like abortion access and harm reduction.

3 things HIV advocates and organizations can do to build powerful communities of engaged voters:

1. There are over 1 million people in the U.S. living with HIV, and countless more people who love someone living with HIV. This is an important bloc of voters, many of whom live in communities that are structurally left out of the political process, either neglected by traditional GOTV efforts or downright suppressed in their efforts to participate. HIV organizations must rise to the moment! Registering voters is a non-partisan activity, anyone can do it!

2. As an individual, you can make a difference with more than just your vote. Start a conversation with friends, family, neighbors, and coworkers. Educate yourself and others about what’s at stake in your community and encourage them to vote in 2026!

3. Join PWN-USA! Stay connected as a member or an ally. Find out more about our campaigns and get notified about opportunities to work or volunteer by filling out the form below!

Slide deck found here.