Using data from more than 3 million people, a team of researchers from the<a href="https://www.thessgac.org/"> Social Science Genetic Association Consortium</a> completed what is now the <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41588-022-01016-z">largest genetic study</a> ever done on educational attainment, the measure of the number of years someone spends in school.
“Educational attainment is influenced primarily by institutional and environmental factors, such as socioeconomic status, school quality, and the neighborhood where you grow up,&#8221;said <a href="https://research.vu.nl/en/persons/aysu-okbay">Aysu Okbay</a>, the study’s lead author and an assistant professor at the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam. &#8220;But psychological characteristics that are influenced by genes, including certain cognitive abilities and personality traits, also matter for school performance.” 
<h6>Genetic Factors</h6>
It’s estimated that at least 20 percent of the variation in educational attainment between people can be traced back to genetic factors. But each genetic variant — each single nucleotide polymorphism or SNP — only has a minute influence. This illustrates “polygenic” influence on educational attainment, where no single common variant plays a large role. 
Although this study found more than 3,900 SNPs associated with educational attainment, the researchers estimate that there are likely tens of thousands if not more that play a role. Taken together, the SNPs included in this study explain about 13 percent of the variance in educational attainment among people of European ancestry. In comparison, household income predicts about 7 percent of the variation in educational attainment, while a mother’s education level predicts about 15 percent, according to the researchers.
<h6>More Data</h6>
The genetic associations identified in this study, however, explain far less of the variance in educational attainment among people of non-European ancestry. Although this study included more than 2 million 23andMe customers who consented to participate in research, the researchers argue that an even larger study with a more diverse set of research participants would uncover more relevant genetic variants and be more relevant for people of non-European ancestry.
This is not the first time the consortium, which includes scientists from a dozen institutions around the world, has looked specifically at educational attainment. The last study, which had only a third as many participants and was<a href="https://blog.23andme.com/23andme-research/massive-study-on-the-genetics-of-educational-attainment/"> published in 2018</a>, found about 1,200 genetic variants that, taken together, suggested an association with brain development.
In a <a href="https://www.thessgac.org/faqs">detailed document</a> that accompanied the publication of the current study, the researchers explain that the connection to brain development isn’t likely to be a direct one. Instead, brain development affects psychological characteristics like cognitive performance and personality traits that in turn lead to behavioral tendencies. These tendencies, in combination with other factors, play a role in outcomes at school. For example, differences in school performance may relate to sleep quality, attention span, or personality traits. A student who is more willing to listen to a teacher’s instructions and gets a good nights rest might do better in an academic setting, for example. 
Read the full paper <a href="https://www.nature.com/articles/s41588-022-01016-z">here</a>.

23andMe Blog

23andMe Blog Team

New Study on Genetics of Educational Attainment

23andMe supports the idea that we humans should celebrate our differences, not criminalize them.
That’s why we are writing to draw attention to recent legislative efforts across the US that essentially bar transgender youth from gender-affirming treatment. These kinds of laws have grave consequences to children and their families. 23andMe is also among more than 200 major companies to have signed a Human Rights Campaign and Freedom for All Americans statement <a href="https://www.hrc.org/press-releases/200-major-u-s-companies-oppose-anti-lgbtq-state-legislation">opposing anti-LGBTQ+ legislation</a>.
<h6>Gender Affirming Health Care</h6>
As we stated last year, gender-affirming health care for transgender people, including trans youth, is <a href="https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/2780517">supported by most mainstream medical associations</a>. Gender-affirming health care is literally life-saving for many trans kids. Studies by the <a href="https://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/145/2/e20191725">American Academy of Pediatrics</a>, <a href="https://whatweknow.inequality.cornell.edu/topics/lgbt-equality/what-does-the-scholarly-research-say-about-the-well-being-of-transgender-people/">Cornell University</a>, and other institutions have found that pubertal suppression treatment for trans youth was associated with lower odds of suicidal thoughts. 
Despite this overwhelming scientific support, many states are specifically attempting to criminalize health care for transgender youth. As of today, <a href="https://williamsinstitute.law.ucla.edu/publications/bans-trans-youth-health-care/">15 states</a> have introduced legislation targeting gender-affirming care; ignoring the evidence, gender-affirming treatments for trans children are being treated as felonies and child abuse.
<h6>Access to Care</h6>
Unfortunately, this is not a hypothetical political move, but a very real and terrifying reality for trans kids who are lucky enough to have supportive families. Investigations <a href="https://www.aclutx.org/en/news/texas-wants-take-trans-kids-their-supportive-parents-were-suing">have already begun</a>. Despite following best practices in medicine, some gender-affirming clinics are <a href="https://www.hrc.org/press-releases/update-as-top-u-s-companies-urge-elected-leaders-in-texas-and-other-states-to-abandon-anti-transgender-efforts-surging-opposition-to-attacks-on-lgbtq-youth-begins-crescendoing-across-the-nation">shutting down due to media pressure</a>. Some bills even attempt to ban families from traveling in order to maintain their trans child’s access to medical care.
Even bills that don’t directly target gender-affirming medicine can have an effect on trans health. Recent legislation could forcibly out LGBTQ+ children, make children with gay or trans parents unable to discuss their families in school, and trans children unable to have their name and pronouns respected. This is despite many studies showing that simply <a href="https://news.utexas.edu/2018/03/30/name-use-matters-for-transgender-youths-mental-health/">using a trans youth’s chosen name</a> and <a href="https://www.thetrevorproject.org/2020/07/29/research-brief-pronouns-usage-among-lgbtq-youth/">respecting their pronouns</a> significantly reduces their risk of depression and suicide.
<h6>Trust the Science</h6>
The science is clear. <a href="https://publications.aap.org/pediatrics/article/142/4/e20182162/37381/Ensuring-Comprehensive-Care-and-Support-for">Having supportive family members</a> is associated with better mental and physical health in trans youth. Trans adolescents who receive gender affirmation are often more able to tend to other things, such as academic success, relationship building, and future-oriented planning. Trans kids and their parents and doctors know what’s best for them.
At 23andMe, science is at the heart of what we do, but this isn’t just about the facts, it’s also about people. Trying to legislate away the existence of trans people is not possible. They are part of humanity and have always been. We will continue our work to support and understand each other. Join us as we stand with our employees, customers, friends, and family who are transgender or have trans kids.If you’d like to learn more about the value of gender-affirming care for transgender youth, <a href="https://www.hrc.org/press-releases/thousands-of-parents-join-human-rights-campaign-in-condemning-state-attacks-on-transgender-and-non-binary-youth">listen to parents of trans kids</a> and read this <a href="https://publications.aap.org/pediatrics/article/142/4/e20182162/37381/Ensuring-Comprehensive-Care-and-Support-for">policy statement </a>from the American Academy of Pediatrics. You can also find out more about the status of state legislation to prohibit affirming care from the <a href="https://williamsinstitute.law.ucla.edu/publications/bans-trans-youth-health-care/">UCLA School of Law Williams Institute</a> and <a href="https://www.transformationsproject.org/legislation">how to contact your representatives</a>.

Trust the Science: Support Gender-Affirming Health Care for Trans Kids

Starting this week, our premium annual membership service, 23andMe+ Premium, will be available widely to consumers in the UK and Canada who are interested in exploring a little deeper into what their DNA says about their health and finding ways to research their ancestry faster and more efficiently. 
Previously 23andMe+ Premium had been available in the UK and Canada only to existing Health + Ancestry Service customers on our V5 chip.  As in the US, consumers in the UK and Canada can now purchase a bundle that includes our Health + Ancestry Service with a 1-year prepaid 23andMe+ Premium membership.

 <figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-style-default"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="816" src="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Plus-Images-e1646159287864-1024x816.png" alt="" class="wp-image-29583" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Plus-Images-e1646159287864-1024x816.png 1024w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Plus-Images-e1646159287864-300x239.png 300w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Plus-Images-e1646159287864-768x612.png 768w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Plus-Images-e1646159287864-880x702.png 880w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Plus-Images-e1646159287864.png 1070w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
 
<h6>Premium Content</h6>
In addition to the more than 150 reports Health + Ancestry Service customers already receive, 23andMe+ Premium membership offers members exclusive access to additional premium reports and features delivered throughout the year. These additional benefits give members a way to go deeper into their health.
This premium content includes Pharmacogenetics reports,* which can help you learn about how your DNA may impact the way your body processes certain medications; genetic reports Powered by 23andMe Research, which can provide insight into  your likelihood of developing conditions like high blood pressure, atrial fibrillation, and migraines; as well as enhanced ancestry features including advanced filtering and access to more DNA relatives.

 <figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-style-default"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="1024" src="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/UK-23andMe-ancestry-feature-1-1024x1024.png" alt="" class="wp-image-29650" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/UK-23andMe-ancestry-feature-1-1024x1024.png 1024w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/UK-23andMe-ancestry-feature-1-150x150.png 150w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/UK-23andMe-ancestry-feature-1-300x300.png 300w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/UK-23andMe-ancestry-feature-1-768x768.png 768w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/UK-23andMe-ancestry-feature-1-880x880.png 880w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/UK-23andMe-ancestry-feature-1-1180x1180.png 1180w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/UK-23andMe-ancestry-feature-1-271x271.png 271w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/UK-23andMe-ancestry-feature-1-372x372.png 372w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/UK-23andMe-ancestry-feature-1-574x574.png 574w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/UK-23andMe-ancestry-feature-1-980x980.png 980w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/UK-23andMe-ancestry-feature-1.png 1500w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
 
<h6>Find Out More</h6>
Existing Health + Ancestry Service customers on our V5 chip can join 23andMe+ Premium membership for an annual price of $39 in Canada or £19 in the UK.
Not yet a customer?
Find out more about discounted 23andMe+ Premium membership Bundle pricing <a href="https://www.23andme.com/en-ca/compare-dna-tests/">here</a> or customers in Canada or <a href="https://www.23andme.com/en-gb/compare-dna-tests/">here</a> for those in the UK.
With more genetic reports, more health insights, and more features, we hope 23andMe+ Premium gives individuals the choice to help them discover even more about themselves to keep fueling their health journeys. Health is in our DNA.
<hr />
*The 23andMe PGS test uses qualitative genotyping to detect 6 variants in 3 genes in the genomic DNA of adults from saliva for the purpose of reporting and interpreting information about the processing of certain therapeutics to inform discussions with a healthcare professional. It does not describe if a person will or will not respond to a particular therapeutic and does not describe the association between detected variants and any specific therapeutic. Results should be confirmed in a clinical setting with independent genetic testing before taking any medical action.  Warning: Test information should not be used to start, stop, or change any course of treatment and does not test for all possible variants that may affect metabolism or protein function. The PGS test is not a substitute for visits to a healthcare professional. Making changes to your current regimen can lead to harmful side effects or reduced intended benefits of your medication, therefore consult with your healthcare professional before taking any medical action. For a complete list of the 6 variants tested, visit <a href="https://permalinks.23andme.com/pdf/pgt_product_info_page_21jan2020.pdf">Pharmacogenetics Important Test Information</a>.

Going Deeper with 23andMe+ Premium 

Kim Gugliotta, 56, fills her plate with healthy foods like legumes, vegetables, chicken, fish, and tofu. She walks for at least 30 minutes a day. And she’s a regular on the pickleball courts of Ft. Lauderdale, Fl.



But Kim wasn’t always so health-conscious.&nbsp;



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-making-the-change">Making the change</h6>



Just a few years ago, she would have opted for “steak and cheeseburgers” and would have been tempted to skip her daily walk. But once she received reports from her <a href="https://www.23andme.com/dna-health-ancestry/">23andMe Health + Ancestry test</a>, everything changed.



Kim, a 23andMe+ member, discovered from her reports that she had an increased genetic likelihood of developing coronary artery disease, something she’d not heard before nor expected given that she had no family history of it. A visit to her cardiologist revealed that she had dyslipidemia, an imbalance of lipids that contributes to the development of clogged arteries. She was immediately put on medication and counseled about lifestyle changes.



She considers herself lucky. 



“My doctor was able to prescribe me a statin which probably saved me from years of damage to my arteries! And prolonged my life,” Kim said.&nbsp;



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<iframe loading="lazy" title="Take Action for Heart Health" width="500" height="281" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/8DL401qjdoU?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe>
</div></figure>



<h6 class="wp-block-heading" id="h-heart-health">Heart health</h6>



Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women and men in the US, killing more than 600,000 people each year, <a href="https://www.waff.com/2022/03/09/take-action-your-heatlh-with-23and-me/">said</a> Davis Liu, M.D., chief clinical officer and physician for <a href="https://www.lemonaidhealth.com/">Lemonaid Health</a>. Lifestyle changes, medication, and genetic testing can all be part of a proactive strategy to protect and improve heart health.



“At 23andMe, we have about <a href="https://blog.23andme.com/health-traits/heart-health/">eight reports</a>* that touch on your heart health in one way or another,” <a href="https://www.wtkr.com/coast-live/genetic-testing-for-heart-health-on-coast-live">explained</a> Alisa Lehman, Ph.D., a senior product scientist at 23andMe. “In these reports, we can tell you if you have an increased likelihood of developing conditions like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and coronary artery disease. Once you have that information, you can work with your doctor to make a plan to try and prevent or manage those conditions.”



Kim knows firsthand just how important that information can be.&nbsp;



“This is our health – let’s find out what kind of issues we may or may not have.”



<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity"/>



*23andMe health predisposition reports include both reports that meet FDA requirements for genetic health risks and reports which are based on 23andMe research and have not been reviewed by the FDA. The test uses qualitative genotyping to detect select clinically relevant variants in the genomic DNA of adults from saliva for the purpose of reporting and interpreting genetic health risks. It is not intended to diagnose any disease. Your ethnicity may affect the relevance of each report and how your genetic health risk results are interpreted. Each genetic health risk report describes if a person has variants associated with a higher risk of developing a disease, but does not describe a person’s overall risk of developing the disease. The test is not intended to tell you anything about your current state of health, or to be used to make medical decisions, including whether or not you should take a medication, how much of a medication you should take, or determine any treatment. For important information and limitations regarding each genetic health risk report, visit 23andme.com/test-info/.

What 23andMe can Reveal about Heart Health

Our bodies do a lot on autopilot — breathing, keeping our hearts going, sweating, digesting our food. But sometimes those automatic functions don’t work automatically. 
So-called “autonomic dysfunction” is when that process, controlled by the autonomic nervous system, goes haywire.
23andMe’s new lead scientist for our Parkinson’s Research program, Lucy Norcliffe-Kaufmann, Ph.D., has been fascinated by that process since studying physiology for her doctoral degree at the University of Leeds.
In particular, Lucy was intrigued by fainting, which is a reflexive response triggered by the autonomic nervous system. In some cases, neurodegenerative conditions like Parkinson’s disease can damage or destroy a person’s autonomic nerves. So for some of those with Parkinson’s-related autonomic dysfunction, which among other things causes hypotension, characterized by a sudden drop in blood pressure upon standing. 
Lucy has continued to study this process throughout her career as a clinical autonomic neuroscientist. She spent several years as the associate director of<a href="https://med.nyu.edu/departments-institutes/neurology/divisions-centers/autonomic-disorders"> New York University’s Langone Health’s Dysautonomia Center</a>, also serving as an associate professor of neurology, neuroscience, and physiology there. Most recently she worked in the private sector with Theravance, where she worked on potential treatments for hypotension, a common problem among those with Parkinson’s disease.
Her role at 23andMe marks a new chapter in her career but also a continuation of this focus on conditions related to Parkinson’s. Along with this continued attention on neurodegenerative conditions, Lucy has always put patients at the center of her work. It’s that and the richness of 23andMe’s data that drew her to 23andMe, and its groundbreaking Parkinson’s research program.
We recently sat down with Lucy virtually to talk to her about her work, Parkinson’s disease, and what she’ll be focused on at 23andMe. Her responses below have been edited for length.
&nbsp;

 <figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-style-default"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="679" height="1024" src="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Lucy_N-K-679x1024.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-29636" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Lucy_N-K-679x1024.jpg 679w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Lucy_N-K-199x300.jpg 199w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Lucy_N-K-768x1158.jpg 768w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Lucy_N-K-583x880.jpg 583w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Lucy_N-K-782x1180.jpg 782w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/Lucy_N-K.jpg 1043w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 679px) 100vw, 679px" /></figure>
 
<h6>What inspired you to become a scientist?</h6>
My father died of diabetes and renal failure very young. I wanted to understand diseases and make a difference. That set me on the path of clinical research. 
<h6>Why did you focus your work on autonomic disorders and neurodegenerative diseases?</h6>
My Ph.D. focused on fainting, which is a reflex response triggered by the autonomic nervous system. Sometimes we would see patients with neurodegenerative diseases that destroy the autonomic nerves. After finishing my degree, I became more involved with patients who have neurological diseases and permanent malfunctioning of the autonomic nervous system that causes near-fainting each time they stand. 
<h6>During your time at NYU, your research included a lot of work directly with patients and advocacy groups. Why is that important in disease research? </h6>
It’s important that we listen to the patient community to find out what’s most bothersome for those living with diseases so that our research is targeting something relevant. The patient community also needs to be aware of what research opportunities are out there, so they can make a choice whether they want to participate. Finally, I think it’s important to close the loop so that patients and caregivers can understand how the research developments translate back to their care. Patients and caregivers are a critical part of our research success. They need to be with us every step of the way. 
<h6>Both at New York University and then I think when you were doing work at Theravance, you began doing more work related to genetics but also in the development of treatments. Can you explain a little about that? </h6>
At NYU, I was incredibly fortunate to spend 15-years working with a community of patients with familial dysautonomia, which is a rare Jewish genetic disease that affects the development and survival of the nervous system. These children are born without the ability to feel pain or temperature and regulate their blood pressure. When I joined NYU, familial dysautonomia was misunderstood from a neurological basis. Over the years, we helped understand what was the specific pattern of nerve loss that caused the symptoms, we partnered with the FDA’s Office of Orphan Product Development to find new therapies to treat the debilitating symptoms and worked on developing potential genetic therapies to help stop the ongoing neurological decline. This patient community shaped my research career, and for that, I will always be grateful. 
At<a href="https://www.theravance.com/"> Theravance</a>, I spent a year in industry working on developing a drug to treat orthostatic hypotension, which is a problem around 40 percent of patients with Parkinson&#8217;s disease develop due to their blood pressure falling to low levels when they stand. 
<h6>What are the kinds of scientific questions or problems you are drawn to?</h6>
I’m drawn to the types of questions that don’t have easy answers. I love clinical research that comes from following the patients and observing trends or patterns that teach us about diseases. I find clinical data fascinating because it comes from the patients. It’s their story and it’s up to us to think about what that means and how we can apply our knowledge to understand and develop better treatments. 
&nbsp;

 <figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-style-default"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="861" height="916" src="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/PD-Research.png" alt="" class="wp-image-29642" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/PD-Research.png 861w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/PD-Research-282x300.png 282w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/PD-Research-768x817.png 768w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/PD-Research-827x880.png 827w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 861px) 100vw, 861px" /></figure>
 
<h6>What prompted you to come to 23andMe, and what specifically interests you about the Parkinson’s research program? </h6>
I really like the idea that 23andMe is following research participants with Parkinson&#8217;s disease. I’ve worked all my career in doing natural history studies. A big draw for me was the idea that we will be keeping in touch with these patients so we can understand how they evolve and we can link that back to genetics. You can only do so much when you see a patient once. But when you follow them over time you can understand much more. It’s this part that intrigues me. Each patient is a story that contributes to our understanding of Parkinson&#8217;s disease over time. Patterns start to emerge and that can change our understanding of neurological disease. 
<h6>Could you explain a little bit about what you’ll be doing in this new job?</h6>
I’ll be working within the Parkinson&#8217;s disease program to map the clinical features of patients and understand their trajectories. We call this phenotyping. Once we understand the phenotypes we can link this back to the genotype and understand why people with Parkinson&#8217;s disease develop some complications and others do not. We will also be following a group of patients that have increased genetic susceptibility to Parkinson&#8217;s disease, which allows us a key window of opportunity to understand the prodromal/early phase of the disease. The earlier we learn to spot Parkinson&#8217;s disease, the more chance we have of intervening to stop neurons from progressively dying. That’s exciting. 
<h6>What is unique about 23andMe’s data set or our research model that interests you?</h6>
What’s unique is the scale of data that we have and the ability to understand how our genotype influences the risk of developing Parkinson&#8217;s disease and how it may progress. It’s an incredible opportunity to work with a team of scientists so that we can answer important clinical questions and set ourselves up for developing and testing disease-modifying therapies. 
<h6>What are your hopes for the work you are doing?</h6>
My hopes are that we can make a real contribution to understanding not only the risks for developing Parkinson&#8217;s disease by following patients in the prodromal phases but also what’s happening in the lives of patients living with the disease today. I’d hope that this goes back into developing new therapies that target the core of the disease process so that we can prevent Parkinson&#8217;s disease before it emerges or preserve function and stop neurological decline for those already diagnosed.

Introducing the New Lead Scientist for Parkinson’s Research at 23andMe

<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-style-default"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" width="1024" height="536" src="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/IBS-Blog-1200x628-2-1024x536.png" alt="" class="wp-image-29632" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/IBS-Blog-1200x628-2-1024x536.png 1024w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/IBS-Blog-1200x628-2-300x157.png 300w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/IBS-Blog-1200x628-2-768x402.png 768w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/IBS-Blog-1200x628-2-880x461.png 880w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/IBS-Blog-1200x628-2-1180x618.png 1180w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px" /></figure>
 
An estimated <a href="https://aboutibs.org/what-is-ibs/facts-about-ibs/statistics/">10-15 percent of adults</a> in the US suffer from irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), a chronic condition that affects the large intestine. Symptoms of the disorder include abdominal pain, cramping, bloating, and changes in bowel function including diarrhea and/or constipation.
The exact cause of IBS is not well understood. <a href="https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/irritable-bowel-syndrome/symptoms-causes">Research</a> indicates that disruptions in brain-gut interactions, changes in the composition of bacteria and other microorganisms in the gut, and the presence of chronic, low-level inflammation in the intestines all play a role. Life events or stressors, a history of bacterial infection in the digestive tract, and genetics can also contribute to its development.  

<h6>A New Report </h6>
This week, we released a new report on IBS for 23andMe+ members.
 The report, which is powered by data from 23andMe research participants, uses machine learning techniques to estimate an individual’s likelihood of developing the condition. This estimate is made using a statistical model that includes more than 12,000 genetic markers, along with information on an individual’s ethnicity and birth sex.
 The report also provides an overview of the condition and actionable ways to alleviate symptoms.

<h6>Taking Action</h6>
While IBS can’t be prevented, lifestyle interventions, medication, and stress reduction techniques can effectively manage the condition.
 Many individuals can minimize their symptoms by avoiding the foods that seem to trigger them. Other dietary changes, such as gradually increasing the amount of soluble fiber (commonly found in foods like oats, beans, and apples) or adopting what’s called a low<a href="https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/irritable-bowel-syndrome/eating-diet-nutrition"> “FODMAP diet</a>,” may also provide relief.
 Because of the close relationship between the brain and the gut, counseling and stress management techniques may diminish symptoms and improve quality of life. Increasing physical activity and getting sufficient sleep are also useful tools.
 And for more severe cases of IBS, medication can help alleviate troublesome symptoms like pain and cramping. 

<h6>Learn More</h6>
23andMe’s Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) report (Powered by 23andMe Research) is available to all annual members to the 23andMe+ Membership. To learn more about your report, go <a href="https://you.23andme.com/reports/prs.ibs/">here</a>. 
Not yet an annual member to the 23andMe+ Membership?
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As a San Francisco Bay Area business analyst, Lauren Trusheim is familiar with male-dominated workplaces. 
“Coming from a data analytics and consulting background, I’m accustomed to being the only woman in the room,” Lauren explains. 
<h2>What are ERGs?</h2>
So when she learned about 23andShe, a 23andMe <a href="https://www.23andme.com/diversity-equity-inclusion/">Employee Resource Group (ERG)</a> dedicated to women’s personal and professional growth, she jumped at the chance to get involved. 
 “Joining 23andShe seemed like the perfect way to build connections with my new 23andMe colleagues and give back to the community,” she says. 
 23andShe, founded last year, promotes community involvement and empowerment through programs, educational events, and volunteer opportunities. Like other 23andMe Employee Resource Groups, it provides a place for employees with shared interests, experiences, or characteristics to gather and build community.
“It’s a space for women to come together and learn from each other,” Lauren says. “Fostering a strong support system is essential for personal and professional happiness and success.”
 In celebration of Women’s History Month, we asked Lauren and three other members of the 23andShe leadership team to reflect on the group&#8217;s impact and their hopes for the future.
<h2>What inspired you to get involved with the 23andShe Employee Resource Group?</h2>
Lauren Trusheim (she/her), Business Analyst: When Lemonaid Health was acquired by 23andMe, I was excited to learn about 23andShe! Throughout my career, I’ve actively sought out opportunities to connect with fellow women and learn from their experiences. 
Melinda King (she/her), Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion: I thought it was a great opportunity to leverage the voice of women within 23andMe and to make certain that issues that are important to women have an appropriate platform. 
 Sophia Majeed (she/her), Principal Clinical Scientist: I think it&#8217;s important for us to have a space to discuss topics and challenges that are specific to women and propose solutions to improve our workplace experience. 
Women&#8217;s workplace issues often make headlines, from the increasing burden of childcare and domestic responsibilities on women during the pandemic to the gender pay gap, and it&#8217;s not unreasonable to assume that these same issues may impact women who work at 23andMe. 
I see the women&#8217;s ERG as a space where we can advocate for positive change for women at the company in an inclusive way that recognizes and celebrates our diversity.
Tracy Keim (she/her), Vice President, Consumer Marketing and Brand: I love groups founded by women, for women. I love hearing about other women’s journeys and stories and learning from them. 
Investing in each other makes us stronger – time, support, listening, advocating, allyship – it’s more important now than ever to build even stronger bonds between women at work. 
New <a href="https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/future-of-work/covid-19-and-gender-equality-countering-the-regressive-effects#:~:text=At%20a%20country%20level%2C%20the,overall%20job%20losses%20to%20date.">2021 McKinsey data</a> shows that the impact of COVID-19 on women who work has been reversed. We need to be sponsors of each other!
<h2>Do you ever find that your gender impacts your daily life?</h2>
Lauren Trusheim: Unfortunately, we live in a world primarily designed by and for (cis, white) men. We see this pop up in office temperatures, bathroom lines, and even the notorious underfunding of women’s health research. 
Living in a society that still largely revolves around the needs and preferences of men has contributed to my habit of always accommodating others and reinforced my people-pleasing tendencies. 
 Luckily, awareness about these inequalities and their impact on women continues to increase. I’m thankful to have ERGs like 23andShe that provide a platform for highlighting issues that impact women. 
 Melinda King: The way that I walk through most interactions in my daily life are impacted by the fact that I am a woman of color. The intersection of those two communities means I have to decide how to show up in spaces that were not designed for me and then navigate to get the outcome that works for me.
 Sophia Majeed: Often, when people find out that I am a Muslim woman, I am subjected to negative stereotypes and assumptions. It’s not ‘popular’ to advocate for the rights of Muslim women, even as we see governments across the globe profile us and implement laws to take away our freedom to practice our faith. 
We are often portrayed as victims who have no agency or control over our fate (it just so happens that most Muslim women I know are intelligent, brilliant, fierce, and independent!). When I told my principal investigator in grad school that I was expecting a baby, she asked me if my husband would even let me work. The stereotypes are tiring.
<h2>What makes you feel proud to be a woman?</h2>
Lauren Trusheim: I have been lucky to have a wide variety of women mentors, friends, and colleagues, all of whom are inspiring and supportive. They are breaking glass ceilings in their respective fields, balancing work and personal lives with grace, and are open about the failures and lessons they’ve learned along the way.
I am constantly inspired by my fellow women&#8217;s grit, tenacity, diversity, and supportiveness. 
Melinda King: Just looking around at all the women who have worked against all the odds to do incredible things for themselves and their communities. Whenever I think it can’t be done, I see someone do it, which makes me incredibly proud. 
I think about the women in my family and their challenges, yet they continued to thrive. Having a family of strong women is extremely empowering.
<blockquote>
<h3>&#8220;By showcasing the diversity of women, 23andShe can help challenge assumptions and stereotypes and create a space for women from all backgrounds.&#8221; </h3>
</blockquote>
Sophia Majeed: I feel most proud to be a woman when I reflect on how resilient we have been throughout history. The women leading Civil Rights movements in the U.S. and abroad inspire me. 
I also take great pride in the women in my life, my mentors, friends, and family, who have overcome immense challenges to become leaders in their fields and have driven important societal changes to improve the lives of all people.
 Tracy Keim: I feel proud to be a woman when I think about all the brave women who spoke up and created the Times Up and the MeToo movement. 
I felt proud to be a woman when Naomi Osaka courageously put her career on hold before burnout, then graced the cover of <a href="https://time.com/6077128/naomi-osaka-essay-tokyo-olympics/">TIME</a> and said to the world, “It’s o.k. to not be o.k.” 
I felt proud to be a woman when I read Emily Chang’s book <a href="https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/547571/brotopia-by-emily-chang/">Brotopia</a> and saw she was unafraid of taking on the tech industry.
After reading Dr. Brittney Cooper&#8217;s book Eloquent Rage, I felt inspired to be a better woman and ally. It provided my first real exposure to and awareness of what it’s like to be a Black woman today. 
I felt proud to be a woman when I saw the first female Vice President take office, shattering a glass ceiling I hope many young women can climb through. 
<h2>What can people do to raise awareness about the issues impacting women today?</h2>
Melinda King: There are so many issues. I think it’s important to research all the opportunity gaps that exist for women and then consider how you can help close that gap in your personal and professional life. 
The pay gap is always a troubling one because the problem is compounded each time women aren’t paid properly, and it impacts their financial security in the long term. I think that’s an issue that constantly needs focus. 
 Sophia Majeed: Having transparent conversations about issues that impact women is a good starting point. Also, share data and statistics for women in leadership positions across the company to identify gaps. I hope that 23andShe will provide a space to have candid conversations.
<h2>How is 23andShe making a difference?</h2>
Lauren Trusheim: I hope to build a community that supports each other during tough times and celebrates each other’s successes. I’m also looking forward to raising awareness about issues impacting women and educating our colleagues through speaker series and other events. 
 Sophia Majeed: I hope that by showcasing the diversity of women, 23andShe can help challenge assumptions and stereotypes and create a space for women from all backgrounds. 
 Tracy Keim: I hope our group can help make a difference by creating the space for learning, connecting, and understanding real issues women face today. I believe we can positively impact each other while encouraging a strong allyship culture. 
I also hope men join the conversation through the ERG’s programming to foster real change, understanding, and empathy. Men are part of the solution.
<h2>What books, podcasts, movies, and other resources do you recommend for those who want to dive deeper?</h2>
Melinda King: I’ve been reading a lot from the author Bell Hooks. She helped me understand how the original women&#8217;s movement lacked a true focus on including the needs of all women. Two of her books, <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Feminist_Theory:_From_Margin_to_Center">Feminist Theory: From Margin to Center</a> and <a href="https://www.plutobooks.com/9780861043798/aint-i-a-woman/">Ain’t I a Woman</a>, provide an informative look back at the feminist movement. 
Tracy Keim: The<a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/MAKERSWomen"> MAKERS</a> organization has some of the best speakers covering intersectionality, equal pay, women’s rights, and more.
Additionally,<a href="https://www.mckinsey.com/featured-insights/diversity-and-inclusion/women-in-the-workplace"> McKinsey</a> has incredible data tracking women in the workplace and issues we face today. And one of my favorite documentaries,<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5x48OViTBpE"> Not Done</a>, is incredibly inspirational to see the progress made by women in history with the reminder that we are not done!

Amplifying Women’s Voices at 23andMe

Blog editor’s note:This #BlackHistoryMonth, 23andMe employees are discussing the resiliency and joy in the Black and African diaspora. While we reflect on the past, share and recognize Black stories and history, we’re also looking ahead toward the future. This month we’ve curated  guest blogs from people who embody that joy, and resiliency and are making that future a reality. Here&#8217;s a personal story about how a lack of Black dermatologists can impact Black patients.
By Shakeia Taylor
If I had to guess, I’d say I’ve spent most of my life on a quest for perfect skin: even, dewy, and smooth. For a good chunk of my preteen and early teenage years  I dealt with acne scars. “Stop picking,” my mom would say, as she swatted my hand from my face. No matter how many times she reminded me that touching my face would not make my skin clear up any faster, I’d find my fingers drawn to the offending dark spots
My cheeks. My forehead. Right between my eyebrows. Acne was always present for me in those spots. I’d try to wear my hair in ways that concealed it. I&#8217;d wear it in giant bangs, only to end up distressed because it’s not practical to cover your face with your hair for a school day. 
I was extremely self-conscious about my face once I started to develop acne and scarring in elementary school. It was the 90’s and clear skin was marketed to teens as a way to be cool. There were ads for products specifically for teenage skin on television all the time. One new skincare brand even used celebrities for its campaigns.Whenever the ads and infomercials came on, especially  while I was watching with other people, I would feel embarrassed. I certainly didn’t want my skin’s shortcomings to be a focus, but sometimes they were. When someone disagreed with me, or wanted me to know they weren’t fond of me, they would joke about my acne and blemishes . It felt like my skin was my sin.I often wondered if it was possible for one of those products to be my salvation.
<h6><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-29575" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/DSC2455-1.jpg" alt="" width="1080" height="1350" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/DSC2455-1.jpg 1080w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/DSC2455-1-240x300.jpg 240w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/DSC2455-1-768x960.jpg 768w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/DSC2455-1-819x1024.jpg 819w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/DSC2455-1-704x880.jpg 704w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/DSC2455-1-944x1180.jpg 944w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1080px) 100vw, 1080px" />Medical distrust and mistreatment</h6>
But finding treatment for skin problems for someone who isn’t white is difficult and discouraging. Many doctors aren’t trained in identifying how some skin issues can appear on black and brown skin. Illustrations and demonstrations typically use white skin, which makes it  difficult for doctors to recognize maladies and treat darker skin. Medications and other treatments aren’t always tested on Black and brown skin, therefore the impacts and effects can sometimes be unknown. There are also very few Black dermatologists. Many people of color are aware of this and tend to steer clear of doctors entirely, which could prove fatal –  as serious issues like skin cancer could then go undetected and untreated. 
My family falls into this category. For years, we’d only go to the doctor when something was seriously wrong . But my mother, determined to fight years of medical distrust, was on a mission to change that. She insisted that we get regular check-ups and schedule appointments the moment something felt or looked off. “What’s the point of insurance,” she’d ask, “if we’re not going to use it?” 
<div id="attachment_29534" style="width: 1716px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-29534" class="size-full wp-image-29534" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/DSC2473-scaled.jpg" alt="" width="1706" height="2560" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/DSC2473-scaled.jpg 1706w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/DSC2473-683x1024.jpg 683w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/DSC2473-587x880.jpg 587w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/DSC2473-787x1180.jpg 787w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/DSC2473-200x300.jpg 200w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/DSC2473-768x1152.jpg 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1706px) 100vw, 1706px" /> Photos by Akilah Townsend</div>
<h6>Hoping</h6>
<div id="attachment_29535" style="width: 250px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-29535" class="wp-image-29535 size-medium" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/DSC2482-240x300.jpg" alt="" width="240" height="300" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/DSC2482-240x300.jpg 240w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/DSC2482-768x960.jpg 768w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/DSC2482-819x1024.jpg 819w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/DSC2482-704x880.jpg 704w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/DSC2482-944x1180.jpg 944w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/DSC2482-scaled.jpg 2048w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 240px) 100vw, 240px" />Photos by Akilah Townsend</div>
Every morning I’d wake up extra early before school and stare in the mirror hoping some small overnight skin miracle had occurred. I mean, I was drinking water and eating great (if you don’t count that I primarily subsisted on french fries and cheese sauce). When were things going to improve? Finally my mom decided to take me to a dermatologist. She was weary of how much my appearance was distracting me, so she got a recommendation from a trusted co-worker. I’d never heard of anyone we knew going to see a dermatologist before but I knew what they did. I was excited, relieved even, that my parents had finally heard my cries and gotten a recommendation for a dermatologist. I was hopeful my skincare woes would soon be over. 
I was sadly mistaken
I remember the day I went to the doctor.. I dressed nice; and I felt ready to learn what it would take to get the clear, smooth skin I deserved. But the dermatologist didn’t calm my fears or my irritated skin that day. She picked and poked at my face. She squeezed blackheads. Ouch. She inquired about what products we use for laundry, skin care, and hair care. She  discovered that I was allergic to coconut oil, an ingredient commonly found in Black hair care products, and suggested I find alternatives.  I was prescribed two tubes of creams; one of which was retinol. Though my face was sore from all the poking, I was still hopeful because we had a plan! And I  had prescriptions to pick up! 
<h6>Losing Trust</h6>
The prescription ointments impacted me immediately. After using them, my skin became dry, red, swollen, and blistered. My cheeks looked as if they had been burned. . Then the redness turned into black, blue, and purple scabs. It was a nightmare. I somehow looked worse than I did before the appointment. I cried. I was miserable. Not only did I look horrible  but my face burned. It stung to wash it. It hurt to sleep with my face against a pillow. I felt ugly and let down. Going to the dermatologist was supposed to make things better, not worse. I asked my mom to let me stay home so as not to endure any further teasing about my skin. 
In a follow-up appointment we learned that maybe my young skin was a little too sensitive for the strength of retinol I had been prescribed. We were told the effects on Black and brown skin weren’t really known so it was trial and error to find out what really worked. My mom decided the doctor had done enough damage and she would take matters into her own hands because what doctor would prescribe a child something so strong. From then on, she bought my skincare from various department store cosmetic brands. She was confident she could make sure I didn’t experience burning skin anymore. 
It took a few weeks for my skin to heal completely, but my trust in dermatology took a massive hit, as did my self-esteem. I’ve spent a lot of time being afraid to put anything on my skin out of fear of experiencing a reaction, but also hating it for seemingly being so sensitive and scarring easily. 
<img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-29577" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/DSC2293_3-V2.jpg" alt="" width="1920" height="1080" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/DSC2293_3-V2.jpg 1920w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/DSC2293_3-V2-300x169.jpg 300w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/DSC2293_3-V2-768x432.jpg 768w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/DSC2293_3-V2-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/DSC2293_3-V2-880x495.jpg 880w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/DSC2293_3-V2-1180x664.jpg 1180w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1920px) 100vw, 1920px" />
<h6>Finding relief </h6>
It’s been more than twenty years since my experience with a dermatologist and the amount of money I’ve spent on both drugstore and department store skincare brands is probably enough to put a child through community college. I’ve purchased every oil and serum. I’ve even tried a few home remedies. I’m not alone – I’ve had many conversations through the years with other Black women who, like me, have trust issues with dermatology.  
But now that I’m nearly 40, some of my skincare needs have changed. So I asked my primary care physician for a dermatology referral. After I explained my history, she pointed me to a local research hospital’s ethnic skin care team. This type of culturally competent skin care might have saved me years of avoiding the dermatologist and hiding behind various foundations and concealers. Though my anxiety around seeing a doctor has not gone away entirely, it has been greatly reduced. I have been able to find solutions to problems I thought I’d have to live with for the rest of my life. My eczema has calmed, the number of breakouts I get has decreased, and the dark spots on my face have started to fade. Finding care that treats not only the complaint, but the person, has not only improved my skin but my quality of life. 
<hr />
Shakeia Taylor is a writer and columnist based in Chicago. She is an avid supporter of women in baseball, and an active advocate for diversity in sports journalism.

Shakeia Taylor

Black Dermatologists Breaking Barriers

Blog editor’s note: This #BlackHistoryMonth, 23andMe employees are discussing the resiliency and joy in the Black and African diaspora. While we reflect on the past, share and recognize Black stories and history, we’re also looking ahead toward the future. This month we’ve curated  guest blogs from people who embody that joy, and resiliency and are making that future a reality. Today’ we meet Jonathan McCory the executive artistic director of the National Black Theatre.
By Melissa Kimble
 Founded in Harlem in 1968 by the mother of the Black Arts movement, Dr. Barbara Ann Teer, the National Black Theatre is the country’s first revenue generating Black arts complex and the longest running Black theater in the world. 
The theater’s  current Executive Artistic Director, Jonathan McCrory, honors the founder’s principles of ownership, self-determination and human transformation, while he and his team confront the enormous challenges the Black community faces today. 
For Jonathan it has meant that for the last decade serving as director of the theater he must lead “ courageously with this notion of Black liberation and bringing your ancestors with you.”
Throughout history, the National Black Theatre has been a refuge for Black artists by creating a safe space for their creativity, their art, and holding ground for their transformation. As one of the oldest theaters founded and consistently operated by a woman of color in the nation, the core mission has always been to be the premier producer of transformative theatre — theatre that enhances African American cultural identity by telling authentic, autonomous, multifaceted stories of the Black experience. This experience and exchange leads to art’s true intention, which is to heal.
<div id="attachment_29547" style="width: 1090px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-29547" class="size-full wp-image-29547" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/jonathan-embed-twitter.jpg" alt="" width="1080" height="1080" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/jonathan-embed-twitter.jpg 1080w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/jonathan-embed-twitter-150x150.jpg 150w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/jonathan-embed-twitter-300x300.jpg 300w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/jonathan-embed-twitter-768x768.jpg 768w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/jonathan-embed-twitter-1024x1024.jpg 1024w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/jonathan-embed-twitter-880x880.jpg 880w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/jonathan-embed-twitter-271x271.jpg 271w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/jonathan-embed-twitter-372x372.jpg 372w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/jonathan-embed-twitter-574x574.jpg 574w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/jonathan-embed-twitter-980x980.jpg 980w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1080px) 100vw, 1080px" />Photo by Giancarlo Valentine</div>
<h6>Nurturing Black Artists</h6>
Jonathan’s  own journey to the theater was one that was already full of intentionality, nurturing Black artists and voices. That started with himself. The award winning director, producer, and artist, made a declaration in high school about his career destination. He decided that he wanted to run a Black theater in Harlem that owned their own space dedicated to doing work for Black artists. “When I decided to name myself as a Black artist, that destination was my birthright,” he says“I needed to also establish that birthright for future Black artists. I wanted to be a part of that awakening inside the psyche of the individual.” 
McCrory describes his role as a “creative doula,” one who takes care of artists’, mental, creative, and artistic “wealth.” Jonathan works with a dynamic team of people with the collective mission of ensuring that the creative work of  Black artists, and their voices are well resourced and pulled to the forefront. His vision for the theater embodies welcoming in and investing in the next generation of Black artists and change-makers in theatre.
“Sometimes people don’t see themselves as producers because they think it’s tied to economics,” he says. “How do we see our culture as an economic tool, knowing that we contribute billions into the economic pipeline? How can we reclaim some of that intellectual property, some of that wealth knowledge and start to actually create spaces of ownership, where we actually lead the producer or the producers of that cultural product.” 
“The National Black Theatre’s core mission lies in human transformation,” McCory said.
<h6>Looking Towards The Future</h6>
McCrory and his team are in the middle of revisioning the theater to service Black artistic changemakers now and in the future. Externally they’re undergoing a physical transformation with a capital redevelopment project and are working towards building a brand new cultural destination and facility for the organization. This new phase of the theater will include artist housing with a twenty story high-rise. The reimagining of their facility will include a studio for theatrical works, a temple of liberation where artists will be able to do immersive storytelling using 3D, XR and potentially VR technology. 
“We are seeking to create a cutting edge new facility that leans into the curiosity of Black innovation that allows for Black artists to find ways in which to find economics, to actually be able to update a benefit inside of the work that they’re able to produce,” he says. “To allow for a more diverse poly of voices to be able to change and radically benefit and actually inform the cultural expression that we all love and are working on.”
The organizations offerings include a theater arts program that’s a three prong program to give artists space to be alchemists: Their Soul Series Lab program is one of the only programs in the country dedicated to Black artists; their playwrights residency is the only residency in the country that provides an eighteen month home for Black playwrights; and their producer residency program is generating the next level of cultural producers. 
<div id="attachment_29528" style="width: 1210px" class="wp-caption aligncenter"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-29528" class="size-full wp-image-29528" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/jonathan-widescreen.jpg" alt="" width="1200" height="628" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/jonathan-widescreen.jpg 1200w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/jonathan-widescreen-300x157.jpg 300w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/jonathan-widescreen-768x402.jpg 768w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/jonathan-widescreen-1024x536.jpg 1024w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/jonathan-widescreen-880x461.jpg 880w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/jonathan-widescreen-1180x618.jpg 1180w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px" />Photo by Giancarlo Valentine</div>
<h6>Theatre In The Digital World</h6>
McCrory is also stewarding the build out of their digital platform to ensure so the theater can connect with those who may not ever feel comfortable being in physical spaces again due to the pandemic. He cites t<a href="https://national-black-theatre.myshopify.com/collections/all">heir merch line</a>, t<a href="https://www.instagram.com/natblacktheatre/">heir Instagram page</a>, and budding partnerships with national potential as extensions to connect and to be a vessel for new possibilities, a notion that is embedded into his leadership style and approach. Many times you will catch McCrory donning <a href="https://national-black-theatre.myshopify.com/">a shirt</a> or hat with the word “joy” on it. As a personal advocate of artistic expression being the vehicle towards joy and healing, McCrory wants to create conditions with joy as a bedrock. 
<div id="attachment_29529" style="width: 210px" class="wp-caption alignright"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-29529" class="wp-image-29529 size-medium" src="http://35.88.189.111/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Jonathon-McRory_50-scaled-e1669736360168-200x300.jpg" alt="" width="200" height="300" srcset="https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Jonathon-McRory_50-scaled-e1669736360168-200x300.jpg 200w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Jonathon-McRory_50-scaled-e1669736360168-768x1152.jpg 768w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Jonathon-McRory_50-scaled-e1669736360168-683x1024.jpg 683w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Jonathon-McRory_50-scaled-e1669736360168-587x880.jpg 587w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Jonathon-McRory_50-scaled-e1669736360168-787x1180.jpg 787w, https://blogcms.23andme.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/02/Jonathon-McRory_50-scaled-e1669736360168.jpg 1707w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 200px) 100vw, 200px" /> Photo by Giancarlo Valentine </div>
“There should be an acknowledgement that although the pandemic has caused a lot of sadness, a lot of grief, it also created the space for us to innovate how we communicate and how we process the way we live our lives,” he says. McCrory looks toward the future with a generosity that is needed now more than ever. 
“We seek to lean into the curiosity of what does it mean to see someone? What happens if they feel seen? And if they feel seen, what does someone get to become?” he says. “That simple question awakens a radical new universe of possibilities. Then we become the vessels of manifestation, the tools to allow for unseen, unfinished work to be possible seen through our lifetime.”
This radical vision is one that Jonathan and his team still carry on in the present times in the shadow of racial upheaval and the pandemic. They are  modifying their approach to continue to be a refuge for Black art and creativity. 
“To lead with a graceful institute is to actually tap in and tune into the wisdom of our ancestors as a fortitude and a fortress to actually awaken human transformation. It is the gate keeping tool and mechanism to unlock what I think human transformation can look like.” As we learn to count our blessings to heal our way forward during these times, we can rest assured that the National Black Theatre will continue to light the way. 
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<div id="t-formula-bar-input" spellcheck="false">Melissa Kimble is a cultural writer, strategist, and consultant based in Chicago. A native Memphian, she advocates for Black creativity across creative industries.</div>
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