In memory of Bryan C. Jones: A leader and advocate for justice

ContributedBryan C. Jones, of Cleveland, Ohio, was a leader, advocate, and friend whose tireless work for people living with HIV shaped HIV advocacy in Ohio and beyond. As the founder of the Ohio Health Modernization Movement (OHMM), Bryan dedicated his life to fighting for the decriminalization of HIV, believing deeply in justice, fairness, and dignity for all. His efforts helped create a more compassionate and informed understanding of people living with HIV, inspiring others to join the movement.Bryan’s journey began in 2009 when he attended the United States Conference on AIDS and learned that outdated HIV criminalization laws were still being actively enforced in Ohio. This discovery ignited his passion for advocacy. Returning home, Bryan started conversations with advocates, professionals, and stakeholders across the state, quickly realizing that most people were unaware of these laws. Through persistence and determination, he formed the Ohio Health Modernization Movement, which has grown into a coalition of people living with HIV, allies, and organizations working to end these harmful laws.For over a decade, Bryan was a force. His advocacy work helped elevate the voices of those directly impacted, emphasizing the need for community-led efforts to address HIV-related stigma and discrimination. In recent years, Bryan’s...