Measures of structural stigmatization and discrimination for HIV research with Latine sexual and gender minorities - PROJECT SUMMARY The goal of the proposed research is to develop, validate, and apply measures of state-level structural stigmatization and discrimination (SSD) for Latino/a/e (“Latine”) and sexual and gender minority (SGM) populations. Latine SGM persons, specifically men and transgender women who have sex with men, face inequities in HIV prevention and treatment outcomes. Latine SGM experience multiple, intersecting forms of stigmatization and discrimination, which research by our team and others has shown to impact HIV-related outcomes. However, most work has focused on the individual level, while measuring and mitigating these phenomena at the structural level is a key strategy for Ending the HIV Epidemic in the United States. Studies of SSD in Latine populations are hampered by a lack of validated measures of anti-Latine SSD, with existing measures focusing on immigration policy alone. Research on SGM SSD has expanded in recent years but the field lacks consensus on which domains, constructs, and items to include in analyses and on methods to ensure rigor and reproducibility of the research. Over this 4-year project, the investigative team led by MPIs Scheim and del Rio-Gonzalez will work with Scientific and Community Advisory Boards to build consensus on the domains and constructs needed to assess state-level Latine and SGM SSD through systematic reviews and a modified Delphi study (Aim 1); draw on the consensus developed in Aim 1 to develop and validate multidimensional indices of state-level Latine SSD and SGM SSD (Aim 2); and take a structural intersectionality approach to examine relationships between SSD and HIV prevention and treatment outcomes among Latine SGM persons (Aim 3). This study will advance the science of SSD by using community- engaged, rigorous, and reproducible approaches to develop SSD measures for Latine and/or SGM health equity research across multiple domains of health. We will make the validated indices and their underlying datasets publicly available for the research community, alongside consensus-based guidelines for selection and application of SSD measures. A multipronged dissemination and policy translation strategy will ensure the utility of study products and results for community organizations, researchers, and policymakers working to improve the health of Latine and/or SGM populations.
