Exclusion of non-White populations from genetics research perpetuates health disparities and limits genomics' universal benefits. Recommendations to ameliorate this problem emphasize recruiting diverse populations through community engagement, a collaborative approach enhancing trust, broadening research benefits, and increasing participation. Despite the effectiveness of community engaged approaches to genetics research, there is a lack of empirical studies examining its impact on Multiracial individuals, who constitute the fastest-growing racial group in the U.S. We conducted focus groups with adults who self-identified as Multiracial. We facilitated discussions with participants about 1) how to define a diverse Multiracial community and 2) how Multiracial individuals should be engaged in the stages of genetics research. Data were analyzed using deductive and inductive coding methods. Preliminary findings show that opinions vary regarding how to define “Multiracial community.” Participants agree that Multiracial individuals should be consulted in the early stages of research studies as well as during the data collection phases, and pointed out that increased participation from Multiracial individuals represents inclusion from multiple racial, ethnic, cultural, and ancestral groups. This study sheds light on the perspectives of Multiracial individuals, who are often left out of scientific research because their diverse racial, cultural, and social identities do not fit traditional methods of categorizing people. This study contributes to ongoing dialogue on the importance of diversity and inclusion in genomics studies. The findings provide a foundation for developing tailored approaches to recruit and engage Multiracial participants in genetics research, ensuring that future studies better reflect the diversity of the population.
