Documentation Status as a Contextual Determinant of HIV Risk among Young Transgender Latinas
PURPOSE:
The
purpose of this study was to explore the contextual factors that determine or
mitigate vulnerability to HIV among Latina transgender women. Documentation
status (legal authorization to live in the United States) has been cited by
other studies as a barrier to recruitment or engagement in HIV-related care
among immigrant Latinos, but not explored as a determinant of HIV risk for
transgender immigrant Latinas.
METHODS:
We
collaborated with a community-based organization to explore these contextual,
including social and structural, factors. In-depth interviews in Spanish
captured life histories of eight 18- to 29-year-old transgender Latinas, who
collectively self-identify as chicas trans. Codes were assigned deductively
from the interview guide, and emerging themes were identified throughout data
collection.
RESULTS:
Most
participants migrated to the United States from Central America after
experiencing discrimination and violence in their countries of origin.
Participants emphasized documentation status as a critical factor in three
areas related to social and structural determinants of HIV risk: gender
identity expression, access to services, and relationship power dynamics.
Chicas trans who gained legal asylum reported greater control over sexual
relationships, improved access to services, and less risky employment.
CONCLUSIONS:
Documentation
status emerged as a key HIV risk factor for this population. For undocumented
transgender Latinas, legal asylum appears to be a promising HIV-related
protective factor. Further research could assess whether legal assistance
combined with wraparound support services affects HIV prevention for this
population.
- 1 School of International Service, American University , Washington, District of Columbia.
- 2 Community Health Action Department , La Clínica del Pueblo, Washington, District of Columbia.
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