Hope? Fear? Trust?: African Leaders in Science & the COVID Vaccine

People of African descent have historically been leaders and innovators in science, research, medicine and public health. The legacies of colonialism and systemic racism also continue to perpetuate mistrust between people of African descent and medical systems. In recognition of these two truths existing simultaneously, Hope? Fear? Trust?: African Leaders in Science & the COVID Vaccine will feature a discussion between African leaders in science who will share insight into the mistrust and inequality that continues to be present within conversations and beliefs around coronavirus vaccine distribution among people of African descent. Within the context of COVID, this discussion will explore the nuances left out of mainstream narratives about people of African descent and how we interact with health systems. Panelists include Dr. Wafaa El-Sadr, founder and director of ICAP at Columbia University; Dr. Onyema Ogbuagu who leads Yale’s clinical studies around COVID and; Dr. Aya Osman, a behavioral scientist who is spearheading a series highlighting research exploring the profound and diverse impacts of racism on the health of Black people in the U.S. Panelists will share how they are responding to COVID in their specific communities and around the world and answer questions from the audience. The conversation will be moderated by Dr. Uzodinma Iweala, The Africa Center’s CEO.