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ACE Against the Odds

NCJ Number
168059
Date Published
1996
Length
0 pages
Annotation
This video profiles the AIDS Counseling and Education Program (ACE) in the Bedford women's prison in New York State.
Abstract
The video uses no narration. It consists of comments by women who are participating in the ACE Program and portrays the various ACE activities as they unfold. Participants explain that ACE is an inmate-operated counseling and educational program designed both to prevent AIDS transmission and to provide counseling, guidance, and support for women inmates who have HIV or AIDS. Participants note that can share their feelings with ACE members because their experiences are similar; whereas, they would be reluctant to share these feelings with professional staff. The video portrays an ACE workshop in which participants conduct a role play that explores the dynamics of interactions among lesbian women involved in the feelings and decisions associated with AIDS transmission. Another ACE activity portrayed is AIDS orientation for new inmates. ACE participants also provide services and support for AIDS patients who are in the prison hospital. ACE members explain what it is like to provide support for a dying friend. The video concludes with action shots and comments of one of the ACE members being released from prison. She speaks of her positive experience in having the friendships and support provided by ACE.