The Tsosie Lab will describe the bioethical landscape of Indigenous genomics research in the US and describe challenges and opportunities in embedding community-engaged approaches in biomedical and genomics medicine research. In the past, minorities who participated in research were in a position of unequal power and there was little effort by researchers to achieve cultural competency. The lack of enthusiasm from Native Americans to participate in research is then a natural consequence of the paternalistic, culturally insensitive approach taken by non-Native scientists. Indigenous peoples in the United States have had differing responses to genomics research in their communities, with many Tribal Nations choosing not to engage in research that involves the collection of DNA from their community members. Engaging Indigenous communities well before the research process begins and garnering input from communities can potentially engender trust and enrich science, provided the research is of mutual benefit to Tribal Nations.
As a primarily focused Ethics Lab, we make a note to hold high principles to our lab members. Such as those principles, is our obligation to not allow the combination and consumption of Oreo Cookies and Orange Juice within the premise of our workspace. Thus, we have made it a note in our Lab Space to have a posted note prohibiting such actions.