NR 717 Week 1 Discussion Culturagram Template

NR 717 Week 1 Discussion Culturagram Template

Student Name

Chamberlain University

NR-717: Concepts in Population Health Outcomes & Health Policy

Prof. Name

Date

NR 717 Week 1 Discussion: Culturagram Template

Time in Community

African Americans represent one of the most historically significant and long-standing minority groups in the United States. Their presence dates back to the 17th century, when many were brought to America through the transatlantic slave trade. Over time, African Americans have made remarkable contributions to U.S. politics, the arts, science, sports, and civil rights movements. Their cultural, intellectual, and social influence has deeply shaped American identity, making them an essential part of the nation’s historical and contemporary development.

Values on Education, Work, Family Structure, and Power

The African American community places high value on family, unity, and resilience. Family structures often include both nuclear and extended systems, emphasizing shared caregiving and collective responsibility. Education is viewed as a key to empowerment, personal growth, and the elimination of inequality. Similarly, hard work, perseverance, and determination are seen as essential cultural values reflecting strength and endurance in the face of adversity.

Table 1

Cultural Values within the African American Community

Cultural Dimension	Description
Education	Seen as a pathway to empowerment, success, and economic progress.
Work	Represents pride, perseverance, and survival amidst systemic challenges.
Family Structure	Family unity is fundamental; extended families play vital support roles.
Power	Despite historical marginalization, empowerment through activism and leadership remains central.

Contact with Cultural and Religious Institutions, Holidays, Food, and Clothing

Religion plays a deeply rooted and influential role in African American culture, with many individuals identifying as Christian—particularly within the Baptist denomination. Churches often serve not only as places of worship but also as centers for community support, empowerment, and activism. Celebrations such as Christmas, Easter, and Juneteenth reflect both religious and cultural pride.

Culinary traditions, often referred to as “soul food,” form an integral part of African American heritage. Popular dishes include collard greens, fried chicken, cornbread, and sweet potatoes, symbolizing comfort, creativity, and community. Clothing styles vary widely, reflecting individuality, regional influence, and evolving contemporary trends, rather than one fixed cultural standard.

Health Beliefs

The African American community has historically faced health disparities and systemic inequities in healthcare access. Incidents such as the Tuskegee Syphilis Study have contributed to lasting mistrust toward medical systems. This mistrust has sometimes affected participation in medical research and adherence to treatment plans. However, recent improvements in health literacy, along with community health initiatives, have fostered greater engagement with healthcare services. Efforts continue to promote trust, preventive care, and equitable health outcomes.

Oppression, Discrimination, Bias, and Racism

African Americans continue to experience systemic racism and cultural discrimination that affect access to education, employment, housing, and healthcare. Structural inequalities have perpetuated these disparities, leading to unequal opportunities and outcomes. Despite these challenges, the community has cultivated remarkable resilience, drawing strength from activism, cultural pride, and unity. Movements such as Black Lives Matter have brought renewed global attention to ongoing injustices while advocating for equality and reform.

Population

The African American community represents one of the largest racial minority groups in the United States. According to the U.S. Census Bureau (2023), African Americans make up approximately 13.6% of the U.S. population. Their social, political, and cultural influence continues to expand nationally and globally, contributing significantly to the country’s collective growth and diversity.

Effects of Trauma and Crisis Events

Question: What are the effects of trauma and crisis events within the African American community?

Answer:
The historical legacy of slavery, segregation, and systemic oppression continues to affect African Americans psychologically and socially. Experiences of racial profiling, discrimination, and socioeconomic inequity contribute to elevated rates of stress-related disorders, depression, and anxiety. While trauma has shaped community life, African Americans demonstrate resilience through faith, family solidarity, and activism. Nonetheless, ongoing social crises and exposure to violence continue to impact emotional well-being and health outcomes.

Language Spoken at Home/Community

English is the dominant language spoken among African Americans at home and within the community. Although there are no major language barriers, African American Vernacular English (AAVE) is a distinctive linguistic style that reflects cultural identity, history, and creativity. AAVE carries deep historical significance, serving as a symbol of shared heritage, resilience, and self-expression.

References

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2022). Health disparities among African Americans. https://www.cdc.gov/healthequity

U.S. Census Bureau. (2023). QuickFacts: United States. https://www.census.gov/quickfacts/fact/table/US

NR 717 Week 1 Discussion Culturagram Template

Williams, D. R., & Cooper, L. A. (2019). Reducing racial inequities in health: Using what we already know to take action. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health, 16(4), 606. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph16040606