{"id":48192,"date":"2024-11-11T11:24:21","date_gmt":"2024-11-11T10:24:21","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ket.brussels\/?p=48192"},"modified":"2024-11-11T11:24:21","modified_gmt":"2024-11-11T10:24:21","slug":"30-years-of-ex-aequo-inspiring-change-with-mike-mayne","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/ket.brussels\/en\/2024\/11\/11\/30-years-of-ex-aequo-inspiring-change-with-mike-mayne\/","title":{"rendered":"30 Years of Ex Aequo: Inspiring Change with Mike Mayne"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

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In celebrating Ex Aequo\u2019s 30th anniversary, we connected with Mike Mayne, a dedicated advocate whose personal journey has been deeply intertwined with Ex Aequo’s mission to combat HIV\/AIDS and promote LGBTQIA+ health equity. His reflections not only honor Ex Aequo\u2019s legacy but also highlight the significance of La Nuit Positive<\/em>, a major event organized to mark this milestone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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KET: Reflecting on 20 years with Ex Aequo, what inspired you to get involved?<\/strong>
Mike:<\/strong> \u201cI felt the urgent need for visibility to break down the stigma surrounding HIV. Being part of Ex Aequo allowed me to show that living with HIV is not a life sentence or a source of shame.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

KET: This anniversary brings La Nuit Positive<\/em>, a concert dedicated to Ex Aequo\u2019s mission. How does this event align with your vision?<\/strong>
Mike:<\/strong> \u201cLa Nuit Positive<\/em> isn\u2019t just a concert; it\u2019s a statement of solidarity and hope. The support from Mustii as our event\u2019s patron and the participation of diverse Belgian artists mean a lot. All the funds will go directly to Ex Aequo\u2019s projects, from prevention to improving the lives of those living with HIV.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

KET: Ex Aequo\u2019s focus has expanded beyond HIV\/AIDS. How does this evolution reflect the needs of the LGBTQIA+ community?<\/strong>
Mike:<\/strong> \u201cOur work has grown to address broader sexual health needs and the mental health struggles, especially as the pandemic has amplified these challenges. But we remain anchored in fighting HIV, which is why events like La Nuit Positive<\/em> are crucial\u2014they sustain our core mission.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

KET: What future do you envision for Ex Aequo, especially with Belgium\u2019s first LGBTQIA+ health center?<\/strong>
Mike:<\/strong> \u201cThe health center represents a leap towards health equity. It\u2019s more than treatment; it\u2019s about fostering a community where everyone feels supported and valued. That\u2019s also the spirit behind La Nuit Positive<\/em>\u2014we\u2019re creating a night to celebrate resilience and community.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mike Mayne\u2019s dedication is a reminder of the ongoing fight for health equity. With events like La Nuit Positive<\/em> and a steadfast commitment to the community, Ex Aequo\u2019s 30th anniversary is more than a celebration\u2014it\u2019s a call to action.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Event Information:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n