Introduction to PSMG Series: Systemic Racism and Prevention Science: Enhancing Social Justice to Achieve Health Equity

Velma McBride Murry, Phd
Vanderbilt University

Neely Williams, MDiv
Meharry Vanderbilt Alliance

Marlena Debreaux, MA, MS
Vanderbilt University

ABSTRACTS:
Disrupting Systemic Racism: Reimagining the Role of Prevention Science

Systemic racism and its consequences have been associated with numerous disparities, including altering the physical structure of an individual’s DNA(epigenetics),  when subjected to these toxic act. Efforts to address this socio-eco-political ills of systemic racism have primarily focused on describing ways in which these experiences influence  the everyday life experiences of minoritized individuals, families, and communities. While this line of inquiry has been informative, descriptively, there is a need to identify ways to disrupt systems and patterns that perpetuate systemic racism.  Such information can inform and guide the design of preventive interventions. A critical starting point is to re-examine and re-image ways to integrate race-related risk and protective processes in the design, development, and implementation of preventive intervention programs, expanding the line of inquiry beyond those who are recipients of systemic racism. This presentation aims to jumpstart the process to urge our field to deliberately consider ways to elevate social justice and equity lens in our work and engage active agents as disruptors of systemic racism.

A Call to Remember the Path Trodden Through Discrimination and Systemic Racism: Taking Actions on the road to Healing for the Wounded

“There can be no PEACE without JUSTICE and RESPECT of human rights.”
Irene Khan

From the backdrop of racism and discrimination in the deep south sixty years ago to this present point in history, I am poised to call out to all who will listen, it is time for a change. Our nation is buried in the pains of our past and the lack of hope for our future. Something has got the change for the good of all, and the future of the nation.  I offer up my story and highlight some of my journey with the intent of setting a context of racism and discrimination in the south and mid twenty century. My story is the story of many in my generation. My story is only meant to serve as an example to frame the conversation about reality and history of discrimination and racism that has be endured by the masses of African Americans (Black and Brown People) across this country. The context will vary from generations to individuals, nevertheless the impact has many of the same characteristics and outcomes. I will discuss the impact of Racism and Discrimination on the life of a sharecropper’s daughter in the deep south. Immediately moving the challenges that lie ahead of all who dare to make a difference in race relations in this country today. Ultimately, we will discuss the what, the why and how of dealing with Discrimination, Racism and Social Injustice thought the lenses of Prevention Science and Health Equity.

All Things Considered: Contemplating the Utility of Critical Race Theory to Enhance Racial Equity in Prevention Science

Critical race theory (or CRT) has recently entered into popular political discourse as a misrepresentation of American history and social policies. Despite this mischaracterization of CRT, the framework has been utilized for decades by scholars in various fields to better understand the role of racism in shaping differential outcomes in everything from law to education. Based upon five central tenets, CRT invites scholars to not only consider the prevalence and scope of racial discrimination but to consider how to co-construct more equitable futures with and for marginalized populations.  While critical race theory and social science have not always been compatible, social science research has further validated the tenets of CRT. Over the course of this presentation we will review the origins and central tenets of CRT, consider ways in which CRT may contribute to increased racial equity in prevention science, and discuss the role of implications for advancing racially equitable public policy.

To request the powerpoint slides from this presentation, please email psmg@northwestern.edu