Title: Native Hawaiian Activists as Role Models of Health

Abstract: Racism, acknowledged as a global public health crisis (Lancet, 2020), perpetuates structural inequalities, leading to chronic health disparities and premature mortality (NIH.gov). Discrimination compounds these disparities, causing stress, depression, hypertension, and “weathering.” Native Hawaiians, disproportionately affected, suffer severe health consequences. This study investigates political activism’s potential to mitigate discrimination’s impact. Collaborating with Dr. Lynette Cruz, a lifelong activist and educator, we explore motivations and health outcomes of politically active Native Hawaiian elders. Using mixed methods, we conduct interviews to shape a novel survey instrument. We then survey 36 Native Hawaiian adults (aged 60+), examining links between activism, social connectedness, mental well-being, and self-reported health. Our research contributes to understanding political activism’s healing potential and its role in promoting resilience within the Native Hawaiian community. By illuminating activism’s motivations and effects, we aim to foster radical healing, transformation, and well-being.

About the Author: 

Dr. Phan is a social scientist who studies human decision-making and collective action. She is an expert in the areas of American Politics, Political Behavior, Political Psychology, and Race and Ethnicity.Her research examines how emotions impact the ability of groups to overcome collective action problems. She uses a multi-methodological approach which includes conducting original experiments and analyzing survey data.