Almost a year ago in September 2019 we changed our name from the Culture, Ethnicity, and Healthcare SIG to Latino Child Health Research SIG. We chose to change our name in order to support research about the largest ethnic group among children and support researchers who do this work.
With the onset of COVID-19, communities of color, including Latinx communities, have been extraordinarily burdened on multiple levels. The interplay of health, economic, social, and legal disadvantage in the setting of a global pandemic has unearthed chronic, as well as new inequities that require self-reflection, understanding, and action. Our motivation and drive, now more than ever, is to support research to reduce healthcare inequities in Latinx communities. Our PAS workshop was to focus on optimizing collaboration and communication with family partners in research, with particular emphasis in those with limited English proficiency. Incorporating family voices in pediatric research is crucial for leading the fight for just and equitable health opportunities. Many professionals are feeling a drive to action but the over-extension of work and life and the distance between us calls for creative and efficient solutions.
We are excited to create some goals for the next 6-9 months that focus on supporting Latinx research and researchers. First, by leveraging existing research networks, like the Continuity Research Network (CORNET), to create structured opportunities to conduct collaborative research on important Latinx health measures; and second, to support a Latinx research ‘familia’ through a zoom writing accountability group (ZAG) where we set writing goals and support and review others’ work. As we continue to move into an unpredictable future, we remain energized by possibility and humbled by the strength and resilience of our communities. If you are interested in Latinx child health research, a collaborative project or joining our ZAG, please email Tania Maria Caballero at tcaball1@jhmi.edu.
