Marshall Martinez reflects on his journey as an activist for sexual health education and HIV prevention, highlighting the importance of comprehensive sex education and equitable access to resources. His involvement began in 1997 when he attended a training session on safer sex at a county fair, sparking a lifelong commitment to advocacy.

Martinez emphasizes the ongoing need for quality sex education in the United States, noting its impact on both queer and straight youth. He states, "Sadly, our country is still lacking in quality sex education for young people, and it hurts everyone—not just queer and trans kids."

He acknowledges progress made over the past two decades in HIV treatment and prevention, particularly with the availability of PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis), which reduces transmission rates. According to Martinez, "In 2022 more than one-third of people in the U.S. who could benefit from PrEP were prescribed it," yet racial disparities persist.

Martinez warns that under potential future federal budget cuts, programs supporting sexual health may face challenges. He stresses the importance of maintaining efforts toward comprehensive sex education: "We simply cannot eradicate the HIV virus (or HPV and any other life-changing conditions) if we don't teach people about them."

Reflecting on World AIDS Day, Martinez calls for continued dedication to public health initiatives despite political uncertainties. He urges communities to remain vigilant against regressing progress: "To allow vulnerable communities to slip back into high-risk HIV environments would be a major public health failing."

Martinez concludes by honoring those lost during the AIDS epidemic while reaffirming his commitment to advocacy: "This World AIDS Day, I ask us to pause and remember—then recommit to that fight."