Restoring trust in research among historically underrepresented communities: A call to action for antiracism research in nursing

Abstract

Background: Health disparities and inequities among historically underrepresented populations represent a public health crisis. Purpose: This manuscript describes how use of an antiracism framework, an evidence-based approach to addressing systemic barriers, can assist with restoring trust in historically underrepresented communities that have experienced harm by researchers. Methods: We also discuss the necessity of inclusive research teams and provide exemplars of how antiracism research principles and inclusive research teams can be used to mitigate harm and restore trust in historically underrepresented communities. Discussion: Historical trauma and research misconduct have resulted in the mistrust of healthcare providers and health care systems among historically underrepresented individuals and communities. Conclusion: Nurse scientists are positioned to appreciate historical inequities and trauma and to intervene by developing culturally relevant interventions. This work, however, will only happen if communities that have suffered harm trust nurse scientists.