The Human Genome Project: Reaching the Minority Communities of Maryland

This two-day conference will provide information about the Human Genome Project (HGP), and specifically the ethical, legal, and social implications (ELSI) of the HGP, to members of minority communities. At the same time, the conference will allow HGP scientists and those directly involved in research on ELSI topics to learn about concerns and priorities of minority communities. The conference, which will include an estimated 200 Maryland community leaders, representatives from state and local government, health agencies, educators, religious organizations, NGOs, and the media, has four objectives:
-to clarify the objectives of the HGP and the research projects undertaken under its auspices;
-to present and discuss possible ethical, legal, and social implications of this research;
-to explore whether the HGP is likely to produce research findings that can be applied to improve the health status of minority communities, and if so, what improvements can be expected and when, and
-to develop a long-term plan that both enables minority communities to convey their concerns and wishes to those who plan future HGP goals and activities, and allows them to be informed about developments in the HGP. Conference Date: May 1997 (Co-funded with DOE)