Black Men’s Health Symposium Will Examine Racial Stereotypes, Trust Issues That Affect Health

DURHAM, NC – Rev. Henry L. Edmonds, Outreach Program Coordinator at Duke/UNC Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, has been working since 2002 to eliminate disparities among certain underrepresented people in research studies at Duke. These disparities include several complex issues involving social, cultural, financial, and racial stereotyping that have led to people of color being under-represented in groups receiving the best care. “I am working between community advocates and researchers at Duke to create partnerships that will reduce the barriers that adversely affect health outcomes for these groups of people, particularly people of color.” 

Except for American Indians, Black men have the poorest health profile by race and gender of all groups with an average life expectancy of 72. As a result, Rev. Edmonds and Duke/UNC Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center invite Black men in the Triangle to the first Black Men’s Health Symposium. The focus of the symposium examines how Racism, Cultural Competence, and Trust Combine to Adversely Affect Black Men’s Health. During the Symposium, community advocates and gatekeepers will come together with researchers and physicians to find creative approaches to disrupting the historical and contemporary issues that have adversely affected black men’s health. 

In summary, the Symposium is a testament to the power of collaboration. By uniting a diverse group of health professionals, researchers, community activists, and gatekeepers, we aim to foster a climate of mutual respect and cooperation. Together, we can take the first steps towards addressing trust issues and challenging racial stereotypes that hinder black men’s access to quality health care.

The Symposium is planned for November 2, 2024, from 9:30 am to 1:00 pm., at the Central Pines Conference Center, 4307 Emperor Blvd, Suite 110, Durham, NC 29903. Confirmed keynote speakers are Dr. Kevin Thomas, MD, Associate Professor of Medicine, Duke University School of Medicine’s first Vice Dean for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, Dr. Christopher L Edwards, PhD, Clinical Psychology Professor at North Carolina Central University, a noted researcher in ethics and cultural diversity, and Dr. Robert Turner II, former NFL football player turned scholar and Assistant Professor in the Department of Clinical Research and Leadership at The George Washington University, School of Medicine & Health Science.

For more information and/or to register, click here.