Parallel tracks in two faith-based genetic dialogue groups in the State of Michigan: Public health convergences

The “Genetic Frontiers” series organized by the Michigan Roundtable for Diversity & Inclusion (formerly NCCJ) of Detroit, and the University of Michigan Life Sciences and Society Program's “Science & Spirituality” initiatives in Ann Arbor, Michigan have for over 4 years independently conducted dialogues with religious leaders, health professionals, and the public on the use of genetic technologies. By invoking values relevant to religious and social communities, including the disabled and underprivileged groups, efforts have broken down traditional barriers frequently limiting discussion to safety and autonomy. This session looks at 7 community forums (Detroit N=353; Ann Arbor N=209) led by religious leaders and health professionals, and ongoing dialogues engaging Judeo-Christian, Islamic, Hindu, and Buddhist clerics. The range of areas covered – from the Human Genome Project to genetically modified foods to embryonic selection – has been equally broad. Content analysis of participatory field notes has yielded 3 baskets of concerns: A. use of interventions having broad public health relevance, e.g., pre-conceptual and early-stage genetic diagnosis, gene and environmental research, stem cell technology; B. tensions and synergies on religious principles, e.g., stewardship and respect for life, human/divine co-creativity, solidarity within family and community; and C. health system inequities. Focus on genetic applications having potential group or societal health benefits motivates dialogue participants to find common moral ground. Discussion of faith-based perspectives addresses areas of moral concern only partially approached by standard ethical analysis. The two program efforts are being used to develop educational modules and expanded dialogues with local and shared communities.