African-American responses to the Human Genome Project

Data generated by the Human Genome Project are expected to have a powerful impact on how we view human biodiversity. Given the history of past biomedical and quasi-genetic abuse inflicted upon Americans of African descent, it is significant that African-Americans have been at the forefront of calls for a variation-inclusive Human Genome Project database and for full participation in all aspects of the project. As articulated in the 1994 Manifesto on Genomic Studies among African-Americans, historically and demographically representative genomic sampling is directly linked to the potential for social justice and equal access to the project's anticipated value. Now, as the Human Genome Project turns its attention to the collection and evaluation of human sequence variation, it is important to concurrently develop research strategies that foster inclusion and collaboration and produce benefits that are accessible to all who have paid for the project's success.