Authors: Emily A. Haozous,, Carolyn J. Strickland,, Janelle F. Palacios,, Teshia G. Arambula Solomon

Publication Year: 2014

Last Updated: 2019-09-30 14:16:44

Journal: Journal of Environmental and Public Health

Keywords: blood quantum, identity, Racialized Identity, tribal registry

Short Abstract: 

Misclassification of race in medical andmortality records has long been documented as an issue in American Indian/Alaska Native data. Yet, little has been shared in a cohesive narrative which outlines why misclassification of American Indian/Alaska Native identity occurs. The purpose of this paper is to provide a summary of the current state of the science in racial misclassification among American Indians and Alaska Natives.We also provide a historical context on the importance of this problem and describe the ongoing political processes that both affect racial misclassification and contribute to the context of American Indian and Alaska Native identity.

Researchers and policy makers must be careful not to link socially constructed categoriesdirectly to genetics, given our global history of a racialized science. Despite efforts undertaken to transcend discrimination brought about by socially constructed categories of race, we all are shaped by our society wherein race and ethnicity organize our perceptions, relations, and behaviors. We must be aware of our biases to guard against reproducing the same mistakes. This starts with understanding the difference between race and ethnicity, and using the terminology appropriately. Authors strongly recommend the science community advocate for appropriate use of terminology, to better inform policy makers, accurately identify health disparities, and improve efforts to advocate for resources from funding sources. No other racial or ethnic group in the US must undergo documented scrutiny to “prove” their identity.

Abstract:

Researchers and policy makers must be careful not to link socially constructed categoriesdirectly to genetics, given our global history of a racialized science. Despite efforts undertaken to transcend discrimination brought about by socially constructed categories of race, we all are shaped by our society wherein race and ethnicity organize our perceptions, relations, and behaviors. We must be aware of our biases to guard against reproducing the same mistakes. This starts with understanding the difference between race and ethnicity, and using the terminology appropriately. Authors strongly recommend the science community advocate for appropriate use of terminology, to better inform policy makers, accurately identify health disparities, and improve efforts to advocate for resources from funding sources. No other racial or ethnic group in the US must undergo documented scrutiny to “prove” their identity.

Source: Link to Original Article.

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