Photovoice is a participatory methodology that entails providing people with cameras so that they can photograph their every day health and work realities; engage in group discussion about what their photographs mean; and reach policy makers. During phase one of our Charles Stewart Mott Foundation-supported community-based project in Flint, Michigan, youth and adults have used photovoice to map assets and build community. During the current phase two of Flint Photovoice, our project focus is to communicate to policy makers and community leaders the participants' photographs and stories to inform program design and policy. The participant-driven creation and dissemination of a publication and ongoing community presentations are two major venues through which to achieve this process. In line with the APHA 2000 conference theme, "Eliminating Health Disparities," we describe and critically analyze the process and outcomes of Flint Photovoice as a tool (1) to close the gap between what policy makers and community people deem important; and (2) to infuse a policy planning process with values and norms held by community people.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of this session, the participants will be able to: (1) identify at least two ways by which health professionals can use photovoice as a communications and advocacy tool to bridge the gap between what experts and community people deem important; (2) describe at least two strategies health professionals can use to involve policy makers and community leaders in the photovoice process; and (3) articulate at least 3 strategies for evaluation
Keywords: Photovoice, Community Involvement
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.