This proposal addresses the question posed in the RFA for the ELSI program 'Will continuing research in molecular biology and functional genomics affect how individuals and society view the relationship of humans to one another and to the rest of the living world?' Specifically, the purpose of this application is to address the impact of current and future knowledge of genetics and genomics on the scientific and cultural definition of race, an issue for the Human Genome Project (HGP).

The Human Genome Project (HGP) is a source of hope and a cause for concern for people with disabilities and their families. Few researchers have solicited the input of the disability community about the HGP or reviewed possible responses to their concerns and expectations. In particular, little is known about the 'grassroots' disability perspectives and, within the grassroots perspective, the views of underrepresented subgroups including women, minorities, and low-income families.