This study explored how leaders of Black churches active in the fight against HIV conceptualised sex and sexuality when describing HIV interventions within their institutions. We analysed interviews with pastors and identified three frames through which leaders understood and communicated about sex and sexuality: (1) an evasive frame, in which participants avoided discussing behaviours and populations that have historically been disparaged within the church by emphasising involuntary risk exposure; (2) an agentic frame, which recognised sexual behaviour that differed from heteronormative conduct; and, (3) a pluralist frame, which allowed individuals to maintain their own beliefs about appropriate sexual conduct. Participants used frames to engage in a range of HIV interventions while upholding stigmatising beliefs about sexual behaviour and identity.
Keywords: HIV; framing; race; religion; stigma.