Chronic Disparities and Reparations: A Public Health Perspective on the African Diaspora

The complex intersections of public health disparities and reparative justice for African-descended populations have emerged as critical areas of study. These communities, spanning regions such as Haiti, the United States, the Caribbean, and Latin America, continue to bear the socio-economic and mental health burdens of slavery, colonial exploitation, and historical injustices. The transatlantic slave trade, an atrocity lasting approximately 400 years, forcibly displaced over 15 million African men, women, and children. Present-day descendants face numerous challenges, including disproportionate rates of chronic and infectious diseases, inadequate access to healthcare and sanitation, compounded by escalating climate challenges. Moreover, pervasive historical and contemporary injustices manifest through transnational criminal activities, disrupting social and economic stability. Existing research highlights these struggles, yet robust investigations substantiating reparative measures for these communities remain limited.

This Research Topic aims to elucidate the potential paths through which reparative justice can leverage health equity, reduce disparities, and enhance well-being for African-descended populations across the diaspora. By integrating multidisciplinary perspectives, this research seeks to provide robust data underpinning the advocacy for reparations. Specifically, it aims to examine quantitative disparities in health and sanitation, compare global reparative initiatives, assess the long-term impact of historical and modern injustices, and propose models for integrating reparations within public health and safety frameworks.

To gather further insights within the boundaries of public health and reparative justice for the African diaspora, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:

• Quantitative disparities in health and sanitation across diaspora communities

• Comparative analysis of reparative justice initiatives and their health impacts

• Long-term effects of historical debts and criminal networks on public health

• Frameworks for reparations-based public health safety programs

• Interdisciplinary approaches linking reparations to health equity

Articles may include mixed-methods research, quantitative and qualitative analysis, big data studies, comparative analysis, and theoretical perspectives. Additionally, the collection seeks statistical and qualitative evidence addressing compounded health disparities and explores frameworks for implementing reparative justice programs. Append the article to include quantitative data, policy recommendations, case studies, and multidisciplinary approaches.