The PD Movers – We Participate in Research
Patients and Families Leading the Way to Education and Discovery for Our Black Diaspora Communities
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The PD Movers – We Participate in Research is a collection of powerful narratives from Black individuals and families living with Parkinson's disease who share their personal experiences with clinical research. Through stories of hope, hesitation, advocacy, trust, and perseverance, these community members explore why research participation matters, the barriers many encounter, and what can be done to create a more inclusive future for Parkinson's disease research.
The goal of this project is to elevate community voices, foster meaningful conversations between researchers and the communities they serve, and inspire individuals and families to learn more about clinical research as one way of advancing science for future generations. By sharing lived experiences, we hope to build trust, address misconceptions, and create opportunities for communities that have historically been underrepresented in Parkinson's disease research.
Documentary
Credible Messenger is a companion documentary that brings these stories to life through the voices of the PD Movers themselves. The film highlights the lived experiences of Black individuals and families navigating Parkinson's disease while exploring the importance of representation, trust, and partnership in clinical research. Together, the documentary and storybook serve as educational resources designed to spark dialogue within both Parkinson's communities and the clinical research community.
Project Partners
The PD Movers – We Participate in Research project is a community-led initiative developed by the Special Interest Group – Black Diaspora, in collaboration with:
- Columbia University Irving Medical Center
- Saint Luke A.M.E. Church
- Teachers College, Columbia University
- The Michael J. Fox Foundation
- Brian Grant Foundation
The project was made possible through the leadership and partnership of community advocates, people living with Parkinson's disease, care partners, clinicians, researchers, and organizations committed to improving equity, trust, and representation in Parkinson's disease clinical research.