Introduction

The annual Conference on Retroviruses and Opportunistic Infections (CROI) has been a pivotal event for HIV science for over three decades, fostering vital dialogues that span from laboratory discoveries to community outreach without prejudice. In its latest iteration, held from March 9 to 12, 2025, in San Francisco, the conference emphasizes a significantly underserved demographic: transgender individuals affected by HIV.

CROI's Commitment to Inclusivity

This year, CROI showcased its dedication not just to advancing HIV science but also to ensuring inclusivity. Researchers, advocates, and individuals living with HIV gathered to address a range of topics, including the plight of transgender people at risk for the virus. The conference transitioned from its traditional format to incorporate urgent discussions surrounding the impacts of federal funding cuts to HIV programs, ignited by policies of the previous administration that have left communities grappling with uncertainty.

Emotional Addresses and Calls to Action

A standout moment came from Rebecca Denison, a long-term HIV survivor and founder of Women Organized to Respond to Life Threatening Diseases (WORLD). Her emotional address called on researchers to channel their fear into action, emphasizing the critical intersectionality of the HIV crisis and the experiences of marginalized populations, particularly transgender individuals and immigrants. The urgency was palpable as participants flooded into the streets for the #SaveOurSciences rally, advocating for ongoing investment in HIV research and support.

Alarming Statistics Highlighting the Crisis

Dr. Tonia Poteat from Duke University noted the staggering reality that 20% of transgender women globally are living with HIV, facing a 66-fold increased risk compared to the general population. Alarmingly, many remain underrepresented in HIV research, as outlined in the 2022 report "No Data No More: Manifesto to Align HIV Prevention Research with Trans and Gender Diverse Realities." Poteat echoed the urgent need to dismantle barriers to care, including societal stigma and economic instability, which prevent these individuals from accessing vital health resources like pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP).

Research Findings from Around the World

Presenting research findings from Brazil and France, emerging researchers highlighted alarming trends: in Brazil, many transgender women remain unaware of PrEP while grappling with high HIV infection rates. Conversely, while access to antiretroviral treatment improved for transgender women over the years in France, Latin American immigrants continue to face significant delays, underscoring systemic inequities.

Celebrating Progress Amid Ongoing Struggles

The conference served as both a celebration of progress and a sobering reminder of ongoing struggles. During a compelling Q&A session, advocate Brian Minaga made an impactful gesture, presenting Dr. Poteat with flowers to express gratitude for her dedication to the transgender community. This gesture symbolized a wider need for solidarity within the field and a commitment to supporting one another in the fight against discrimination and violence.

External Pressures Threaten Progress

As discussions unfolded, it became evident that although the landscape for HIV research among transgender populations is slowly advancing, external pressures persist. The void left by reduced federal investment threatens groundbreaking progress in understanding HIV’s disproportionate impact on trans people. The conference wrapped up with sobering reflections on potential setbacks due to socio-political obstacles.

The Urgent Call for Research and Advocacy

The stakes couldn't be higher: as trans rights face increasing threats, the need for robust data and research is paramount. Co-director of the Positive Women’s Network–USA, Keiva Lei Cadena, highlighted the importance of amplifying trans voices through research—essentially proving existence in a landscape that all too often seeks to erase it.

Conclusion

As the conference participants left, they carried with them a renewed commitment to fight against the tide of discrimination and to ensure that all lives—especially those marginalized—matter in the ongoing battle against HIV. It is a call to action not only for continued research but for advocacy and support for the wide-ranging intersections that define the lives of transgender individuals everywhere.