Advancing Racial Equity for Black Youth Within Sexual Health Programming: A Targeted Literature Review

Black youth in the United States experience persistent sexual and reproductive health (SRH) disparities driven by systemic factors, including inequitable access to care, racism, discrimination, and deficit-based narratives within health programming. This targeted literature review synthesizes recent research to explore how programs can advance racial equity for Black youth to address SRH disparities. Incorporating perspectives from an expert panel and a rigorous review of studies from 2014 to 2024, the findings highlight three themes: (a) providing tailored, culturally responsive programs, (b) shifting from deficit frameworks to strengths-based approaches, and (c) amplifying and uplifting the voices of Black youth in program design and implementation. Evidence points to the need for SRH interventions that directly confront structural inequities and embrace frameworks such as reproductive justice, critical consciousness while acknowledging the diverse identities, and experiences of Black youth. The review underscores the importance of intersectionality, youth engagement, and community-driven solutions as foundations for promoting and advancing equity. These insights inform future research and practice to reduce disparities and foster well-being by centering the unique experiences of Black youth.