The anti-prostitution loyalty oath was introduced in 2003, and essentially affects all U.S. government funding for international HIV/AIDS programming. The loyalty oath requires organizations receiving U.S. HIV/AIDS assistance to formally pledge their opposition to prostitution and sex trafficking. It also prohibits activities that promote or support the legalization or practice of prostitution. Commercial sex workers are at serious risk for HIV, and this ban prevents any US support for sex worker organizing or unionizing.

 Despite the opposition and efforts by human rights organizations and public health advocates, this oath remains embedded in U.S. global HIV/AIDS policy. The anti-prostitution loyalty oath restricts programming to those who are disproportionately affected and undermines US goals in fighting AIDS. Stand up, be a voice, and ask Congress to change this policy.