The cluster comprises three thematic areas and one crosscutting stream. Each of the thematic areas, namely:
(i) pattern and drivers of epidemics,
(ii) structural justice and epidemics, and
(iii) health and well-being among transnational Black communities, constitute specific projects designed to investigate pertinent research questions
Pattern and Drivers of Epidemics
The Pattern and Drivers of Epidemics theme focus on identifying the patterns of the epidemic across core demographic lines (e.g., age, sex, gender, etc.), and the socioeconomic and political factors that shape Black communities’ experiences in preventing, responding, and overcoming epidemics. It places epidemics and their impact within the broader socioeconomic and political context to explore how patterns of health outcomes intersect with social issues.
Structural Justice and Epidemics
The Structural Justice and Epidemics theme examines epidemics and healthcare for Black communities from the perspective of equity and human rights. Focusing on structural inequalities from the axes of race, class, and gender, this theme brings together projects that explore how historical structures of colonialism, patriarchy, and capitalism produce and compound health inequity in Black communities.
Health and Wellbeing among Transnational Black Communities
The Health and Wellbeing among Transnational Black Communities theme devotes attention to examining transnational relationships, knowledge systems, and social resources and practices that empower Black communities when confronted with epidemics. This theme is united by a transnational approach that defines Black communities in terms of their historical, cultural, and geographical heritage as well as collective experiences of epidemics. Led by thematic leads, each project in the respective thematic areas will focus on the following overlapping policy areas: SDG 3 on good health and wellbeing; SDG 5 on gender equality, SDG 10 on reducing inequalities; SDG 17 on global partnership; and ¿ì²¥ÊÓƵ’s Anti-Black Racism Framework.
To foster inter-thematic collaboration, the crosscutting stream of methodological innovation and application is aimed at assessing and improving methodologies in global health and social sciences, particularly in terms of their commitment to intersectional feminist and decolonial approaches that prioritize social change and justice. The collegial governance and operational framework will ensure not only mutual respect between the thematic streams but also facilitate inter-thematic interactions to explore emerging overlapping questions and issues that require synergies. Members of each stream agreed on the first listed theme lead responsible for coordinating project activities through quarterly meetings and then collaborating with the coordinator for cluster-wide meetings every six months.