As with all service-learning activities on our campus, students have the right to opt out of any activity
that contradicts their religious or moral convictions,but historically none have avoided this project.
Eachyear during the reflection on the Candy and Condoms event there is a powerful moment when the
students recognize how complex identification is how what they have learned in our course separates
them in some ways from their peers. Some determine for themselves how important it is that they find
whatever quiet ways they can to convey a message that people just don’t want to hear: that HIV infection
is a real concern on college campuses; that no matter how much HIV has been characterized as a manageable illness in popular media and culture, it is not
something students want to contract or spread due to
unconsidered decisions; that we need to have sensi-
tivity and concern for people struggling and suffering
right here among us. The students, when encouraged
to reflect deeply, report feeling less connected with
their own peers encountered during this event than
with the PLWH/As they meet while completing their
other service-learning activities.