Amplifying Voices: Insights from Black and Latine Transgender Communities in Research From Research to Action: Engaging Marginalized Communities

Health inequities within transgender and gender-diverse (TGD) communities, particularly among Black and Latine individuals, persist due to gaps in inclusive research practices. A recent publication, Engaging Black and Latine Transgender and Gender Diverse Persons in Research: Advice from a Community-Based Focus Group (RTI Press, 2024), delves into these challenges and offers actionable strategies to foster trust, inclusivity, and meaningful participation.

Key Insights from the Research

The study highlights the unique barriers faced by Black and Latine TGD individuals and provides a blueprint for researchers to create equitable and impactful studies. Here are some of the main themes:

  1. Trust Starts with Representation Leadership by transgender and gender-diverse individuals fosters trust and ensures that research aligns with community needs. Collaborating with TGD-led organizations and highlighting their leadership in study design is critical.
  2. Recognizing Emotional Costs Participation often requires revisiting sensitive or traumatic experiences. The research emphasizes the importance of trauma-informed practices, such as content warnings, optional camera use in virtual settings, and access to mental health resources. Equitable financial compensation also acknowledges the emotional toll of participation.
  3. Inclusive Recruitment Strategies Effective recruitment begins with culturally affirming materials and outreach. Multilingual materials featuring Black and Latine TGD individuals, along with trusted community channels like gender-affirming clinics and LGBTQIA+ social media groups, are essential. Providing clear details about financial compensation, safety measures, and study benefits further encourages participation.
  4. Virtual Accessibility Virtual focus groups reduce logistical barriers like travel and exposure, making it easier for TGD individuals to participate while ensuring their safety and comfort. This approach also broadens the geographic reach of studies.
  5. Balancing Personal Burden and Community Benefits Participants weighed the emotional costs of sharing their experiences against the potential benefits for their communities. Studies that clearly articulate their purpose and demonstrate tangible community benefits are more likely to inspire participation.

Why This Matters for Researchers

This study goes beyond identifying challenges; it equips researchers with practical solutions to make their work more inclusive and impactful. By addressing systemic barriers and fostering partnerships with marginalized communities, researchers can:

  • Enhance the representation of historically underrepresented voices.
  • Build long-term trust with TGD communities.
  • Contribute to actionable change by ensuring that research findings reflect the lived realities of Black and Latine TGD individuals.

Access the Full Article

To explore these strategies in greater detail and learn how you can implement them in your work, read the full publication: Engaging Black and Latine Transgender and Gender Diverse Persons in Research.

Join the Movement

Representation in research is more than a checkbox—it’s a commitment to equity and justice. Share your thoughts, questions, or strategies in the comments. Together, we can ensure that every voice is heard and valued in shaping the future of health research.

This blog post is based on findings from a study led by the Transcend Research Collective and published by RTI Press in 2024.