Join us for Bridging Faith to the Future of Genomic Research, a pivotal event exploring the critical intersections of race, faith, and science. Presented in collaboration with the NIH All of Us Research Program, this conversation will address how health research can play a vital role in closing health disparities within Black and African American communities. Historically, due to limited access to healthcare and a justified mistrust of research, these communities have been hesitant to participate in scientific studies. The All of Us Research Program is committed to building trust and ensuring these communities are actively involved in shaping the future of healthcare.

The event will feature a distinguished panel of speakers, including Dr. Karriem Watson, Chief Engagement Officer of the All of Us Research Program; Dr. Tshaka Cunningham, Executive Director of the Faith-based Genetic Research Institute; Veronica Robinson, Senior Advisor for The Henrietta Lacks Initiative; Dr. Fatimah Jackson, Director of the Cobb Research Laboratory at Howard University; Dr. Chazeman S. Jackson, Senior Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at the American Society of Human Genetics; and Roslyn M. Brock, Associate Pastor and Chief Global Equity Officer at Abt Global. These leaders from faith-based communities and genomic research will provide invaluable insights on how people of color can shape the future of healthcare and contribute to health equity in America.

The event, which is open to the public, will take place in the Oprah Winfrey Theater at the National Museum of African American History and Culture. The program will begin at 12:00 p.m. with a brief excerpt from The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks, followed by a response from Mrs. Veronica Robinson, the great-granddaughter of Henrietta Lacks, and Reverend Roslyn Brock. The panel discussion will commence at 12:45 p.m., and the live streaming will commence.

Image credit: Alan Karchmer