Authors: Keisha L. Bentley-Edwards, Patrice Jordan Fleming, Irene A. Doherty, Dane R. Whicker, Sabrena Mervin-Blake, and Nadine J. Barrett
Abstract: Ensuring equity in research is a critical step in advancing health equity. In this perspective, the authors introduce a guiding framework for advancing racial equity in research processes, environments, and among the research workforce, the 5Ws of Racial Equity in Research. Centering their discussion on the 5Ws: Who, What, When, Where, and Why, they use historical and contemporary examples of research inequities to demonstrate how these five simple questions can encourage open discussion and proactive planning for equity in research. They close with an acknowledgment of the framework’s broad utility and a researcher-directed call to action.
Key Findings
- In alignment with the 5Ws of Racial Equity in Research framework, researchers, as well as institutional leadership, must reflect on their methods and policies by asking themselves,
- Who do I want to be in the fight to create more equitable research practices and environments?
- What am I willing to change personally and in my research agenda?
- When will I prioritize these changes?
- Where is my research going and is it seen by those most impacted by the work?
- And why is racial equity a priority to me now, and why wasn’t it before?
