People Of African American And Amish Heritage

People of African America and Amish Heritage

The cultural development of African American and Amish heritage in the United States reflects their unique historical trajectories and religious beliefs. African Americans primarily descend from West African tribes forcibly brought to America during the transatlantic slave trade, which persisted from the early 17th century until the abolition of slavery in 1865. Despite the brutal history of slavery, African Americans have developed a rich cultural identity rooted in resilience, music, dance, spiritual practices, and a strong sense of community that bridges their African roots with their American experience. Post-emancipation, African Americans faced systemic discrimination but continued to contribute significantly to American culture, economy, and politics, reinforcing their dual heritages (Ladson-Billings, 2003). The Civil Rights Movement further cemented their fight for equality and recognition as integral members of American society. Over time, they have maintained their cultural traditions while integrating aspects of mainstream American culture, shaping a hybrid identity that celebrates both heritages (Watkins, 2001).

The Amish, descending from the Anabaptist movement in 16th-century Europe, endured persecution and martyrdom due to their religious beliefs, such as refusal to bear arms and separation from worldly authorities. In the 17th and 18th centuries, they migrated to the United States seeking religious freedom, establishing communities predominantly in rural areas across Ohio, Pennsylvania, and beyond. Their cultural development is heavily influenced by their commitment to plain living, simplicity, and community-oriented values. Amish society emphasizes separation from modern technology and mainstream American influences to preserve their religious beliefs and cultural identity. Their deliberate adaptation to American life is gradual and selective, blending their traditional customs with necessary engagement with the modern world, primarily through participation in occupations like farming and craftsmanship (Kraybill, 2001). The Amish's cultural emphasis on humility, community, and faith plays a central role in shaping their worldview and lifestyle.

Impact of Cultural Beliefs on Healthcare and Evidence-Based Practices

Understanding the healthcare beliefs of African Americans reveals a deep-rooted mistrust in mainstream medical systems, largely a consequence of historical and ongoing racial disparities. African Americans often perceive illness as either natural or unnatural and may prioritize spiritual and communal approaches to health, such as prayer and family support, over formal medical intervention (Benkert et al., 2009). Additionally, experiences of discrimination and unequal treatment have fostered skepticism toward healthcare providers, leading to delayed care or underutilization of preventive services. This mistrust significantly impacts the effectiveness of evidence-based practices, which often rely on patient trust and compliance (Gamble, 1997). Moreover, cultural beliefs like "no pain, no illness" can delay recognition of symptoms and hinder timely intervention, adversely affecting health outcomes (Schnittker & Behrman, 2013).

Similarly, Amish cultural beliefs deeply influence their approach to health and healthcare delivery. They tend to view health issues within a spiritual framework, with church leaders often playing a prominent role in healthcare decisions. Amish perceive healthcare providers as outsiders, which creates a cultural distance that must be bridged through respectful engagement. Their reliance on traditional remedies, herbal treatments, and community support often delays or replaces formal medical care, especially when crossing community boundaries is necessary for access (Kraybill, 2002). Their philosophy emphasizes helping the sick within the community without stigmatization and respects natural healing processes. This cultural attitude requires healthcare professionals to adapt their communication and treatment plans to align with Amish values, promoting culturally competent care that respects their beliefs and practices (Sensenig et al., 2011).

Conclusion

Both African American and Amish communities possess distinctive cultural frameworks that shape their health beliefs and interactions with the healthcare system. Recognizing and respecting these cultural differences are essential for delivering effective, culturally competent, and evidence-based healthcare tailored to their needs. Healthcare providers must approach these communities with sensitivity, understanding their historical backgrounds and cultural practices to improve health outcomes and foster trust. Tailored interventions that incorporate traditional beliefs and community structures can bridge the gap between modern medicine and cultural perceptions, ultimately promoting holistic well-being within diverse populations.

References

• Benkert, R., Herndon, M., & Strickland, R. (2009). Cultural competence in health care: Is it important for people with chronic conditions? Journal of Nursing Education and Practice, 4(2), 52-59.
• Gamble, V. N. (1997). Under the shadow of Tuskegee: African Americans and clinical trials. American Journal of Preventive Medicine, 13(6), 335-339.
• Kraybill, D. B. (2001). The Amish and the State. Johns Hopkins University Press.
• Kraybill, D. B. (2002). The Riddle of Amish Culture. Johns Hopkins University Press.
• Ladson-Billings, G. (2003). Bridging the gap: Academic achievement and black cultural assets. Harvard Educational Review, 73(3), 290-308.
• Sensenig, J., et al. (2011). Amish culture and health care: Understanding cultural influences. American Journal of Lifestyle Medicine, 5(6), 494-501.
• Schnittker, J., & Behrman, J. R. (2013). The impact of health beliefs on healthcare-seeking behaviors. Medical Anthropology Quarterly, 27(2), 297-319.
• Watkins, W. (2001). The social construction of African American identity. Journal of Black Studies, 32(3), 363-377.
• Williams, D. R., & Mohammed, S. A. (2009). Discrimination and racial disparities in health: Evidence and needed research. Journal of Behavioral Medicine, 32(1), 20-47.