COSAM News Articles 2021 October OurSTEMStory - November 18

OurSTEMStory - November 18

Published: 10/19/2021

Please register here: https://www.ourstemstoryau.com/events.html

Please note this event will take place in person with reduced seating capacity and masks required but also through zoom and live-streamed on youtube. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDUCtNsXPhabda9afaXiQmg

The histories of Black trauma and research ethics are not mutually exclusive. In fact, some of the ethical principles established in research were developed in response to inhumane experimentation upon groups like the participants of the Tuskegee Syphilis study. Unfortunately many are unaware of the unethical procedures and actions conducted on Black/African-Americans against their will. Further, the school of thought used to legitimize the unethical actions, eugenics, assumed Black/African-Americans were genetically inferior and even inhuman. Although the unwilling participation of Black/African-Americans in early research resulted in ground-breaking discoveries improving the health of the present general population, some would argue the ironic truth is the actions of the past results in disparities faced by Black/African-Americans receiving healthcare today.

Given the current climate, OurSTEMstory wanted to provide a timely event in the form of a conversation addressing some of the reasons and providing some solutions to why Black/African-Americans are hesitant to accept the guidance of researchers and medical professionals.

Although the event is in person, there is limited seating capacity to the event space therefore early registration is strongly suggested.

Mask wearing will be enforced.

The road to modern medicine and research was not always paved with respect for life, liberty, or property. The purpose of OurSTEMstory is to educate both current and future scientists, as well as the public on research ethics. Each semester OurSTEMstory hosts a keynote speaker connecting the audience with true science stories illustrating how research and social ethics have been violated. The series is not just about listening, but also an enriching experience - guiding the audience in deep analysis and conversation on the historical context and current status of these violations.

"OurSTEMstory," is designed to raise awareness about the contributions of underrepresented groups in STEM, Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. Modern medicine and society have benefitted from the consensual and nonconsensual contributions of underrepresented groups to STEM, and we want to highlight their stories while also acknowledging any unethical missteps taken in the name of advancing research and knowledge.