The Film Philadelphia, By Andrew Beckett - 833 Words

The film Philadelphia involves a homosexual man, named Andrew Beckett, who suffers from the chronic disease known as Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS). During the 1980s, AIDS became known as the â€Å" gay† disease. It was titled â€Å"gay† disease because a high incidence of AIDS was detected within the gay community especially among homosexual males. AIDS can cause many side effects such as skin lesions, coughing, sweating, diarrhea, and pneumonia. AIDS weakens the immune system and the body loses its ability to fight against infections. Those suffering with AIDS encounter many challenges such as discrimination in the workplace and social isolation. The film Philadelphia sheds light on these civil exclusions and acknowledges the†¦show more content†¦Among those whose status was known, discrimination was reported to be highest among friends (23.2%) and at the workplace (20.2%). Andy was socially isolated from attending office events or social gatherings. His team justified their actions by blaming Andy for having a bad attitude. They stated this made it difficult for them to form a relationship with him. However, prior to the AIDS revelation, Andy was greeted by all and routinely congratulated for his great work on court cases. Andy even accompanied his male colleagues at country clubs for spa sessions. Andy was viewed as a liability because the firm felt they would lose clients if Andy’s sexuality became public. Statistics confirm how likely social injustices occur within the workforce after one’s revelation of AIDS. The article, Social Impact of HIV/AIDS states, â€Å"Attitudes such as hostility (14.5%), withdrawal (11.7%) and neglect (6.8%) were reported†¦.† ( Johnson 47-53).† Andy faced discrimination not only in his work life, but personal life as well. After discovering his illness, Andy began to research AIDS at a local library. When inquiring about a book on AIDS, the librarian realized that Andy may be inflicted with the disease given his symptoms--noticeable lesions, coughing, and nose blowing. The librarian indicated to Andy that â€Å"We have a private research room available† (Nyswaner 47). In other words, the librarian asked Andy to move on behalf ofShow MoreRelatedThe Film Philadelphia- Prejudice on an Innnocent Man Essay940 Words   |  4 Pages Philadelphia- Prejudice on an innocent man Until this day, many members of the LGBTQ community are still fighting for their rights and to be accepted for who they are. This community has to challenge political set beliefs such as same-sex marriage to change the societal norm because of who they choose to love and to find their identity. Jonathon Demme’s Film Philadelphia embodies the G and Q in LGBTQ. 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