Echoes of eugenics: confronting its effects in indigenous genomics

In this perspective piece, we review the history of eugenics and its impacts on Indigenous peoples of North America. The perspective outlines historical policies, such as forced sterilization and immigration efforts targeting Indigenous populations. We explore how science is intertwined with eugenics and how eugenic ideologies continue to negatively impact Indigenous communities and science today. The work investigates the legacy of eugenics in shaping genetic studies, including genetic counseling and large-scale initiatives like the Human Genome Diversity Project. Additionally, we consider how institutions and biomedical research settings have committed inexcusable and unethical science that contributed to Indigenous peoples' attitudes toward genetic and biomedical research. The work addresses the challenges genetic testing, including direct-to-consumer testing, poses to Indigenous people's identities, culture, and sovereignty. Acknowledging this devastating history is essential to understanding its continued impact on Indigenous communities today. We conclude by highlighting ongoing efforts and strategies to effectively engage with Indigenous peoples in genetic research, emphasizing the responsibilities of modern researchers to build trust, ensure ethical practices, and contribute to inclusive and respectful science.