What a fantastic time we had at the APHA Conference in Minneapolis! Our week was filled with opportunities to connect, collaborate, and learn as we joined public health professionals from across the nation to explore pressing public health topics. Our team was excited to bring insights from our latest research, and it was even more inspiring to see the synergy created by each presentation, discussion, and exchange of ideas.
Celebrating Collaborative Research and Storytelling
At the heart of our work this year was collaboration. Our sessions highlighted the power of partnerships, studying existing narratives about health issues, and creating and evaluating alternative narratives to advance community-based priorities. You can read more about the presentations we shared at APHA in our original post, but here are some key topics we discussed:
- Community-Driven Narrative Strategies: Our partners from the Center for Health Progress presented on how our community-based participatory research (CBPR) partnership has engaged their leaders in considering the role of narrative in campaigns for health equity. Our collective approach reaffirms that centering community voices leads to authentic and impactful narratives.
- Media’s Role in Shaping Public Health Perspectives: We explored how traditional messaging in media frames public issues, from housing insecurity to healthcare complexity. By examining how stories are currently told, our team and collaborators are uncovering ways to push for coverage that brings greater attention to structural factors affecting health.
- Building Trust Amid Conflicting Information: Another key focus was the impact of conflicting health messages on public trust. Through our research, we’re learning how to help audiences navigate today’s complex health information landscape while promoting credibility and transparency.
- Mental Health Narratives for Black Youth: We also looked at how the media represents mental health issues, particularly in marginalized communities, and the role that telling new stories might play in shifting public attitudes. Our research encourages a more inclusive approach to storytelling, ensuring that traditionally underrepresented voices are heard.
Looking Ahead Together
From our research presentations to casual networking moments, APHA week was all about the power of coming together to drive positive change. We’re grateful for every connection we made and every conversation that deepened our commitment to equity-focused research. It was especially meaningful to connect with our partners at Berkeley Media Studies Group and Center for Health Progress, whose insights and dedication continue to drive our work forward.
To keep up with our ongoing work and stay connected, sign up for our newsletter here. We’re excited to continue this journey with all our partners and allies, pushing the boundaries of what public health storytelling can achieve. Let’s keep this momentum going—together! 🌍
