Championing Reproductive and Birth Justice Nationwide
As we observe Black Maternal Health Week from April 11-17, it’s crucial to shine a light on the alarming maternal health crisis affecting Black women in America.
The stark reality is that Black women are dying at disproportionately high rates during pregnancy and childbirth, with the maternal mortality rate for Black women over 2.5 times higher than the rate for white women.
Fortunately, there are several impactful organizations across the country that are working tirelessly to address this pressing issue and improve maternal health outcomes for Black mothers and families.
From providing essential doula support to advocating for policy change, these initiatives are leading the charge in the fight for maternal health equity.
Empowering Black Mothers and Families Through Holistic Care
Ancient Song Doula Services, a national organization, is working to eliminate the high rates of death and complications among Black and Latina mothers and babies. By offering doula training and services, community education, and advocating for policy changes, Ancient Song Doula Services aims to improve health outcomes and ensure that all mothers have access to quality, culturally-competent care.
Similarly, Mama Glow, a premier maternity lifestyle brand in New York, is dedicated to supporting women along the entire childbearing continuum. From fertility to pregnancy, postpartum, and new motherhood, Mama Glow offers a full spectrum of holistic wellness services and resources, empowering women with the necessary tools and support to navigate the challenges of pregnancy and new motherhood.
Addressing Systemic Barriers and Racism in Maternal Care
The Black Mamas Matter Alliance, a national network of Black women-led and Black-led organizations and professionals, is at the forefront of the Black maternal health crisis.
By elevating the issue and advancing policy solutions, the alliance is driving critical change to improve maternal health outcomes and end the disparities faced by Black women.
Irth, a groundbreaking app, is also fighting to end racism in maternity care. The platform serves as a resource for Black and brown women to find reviews and ratings of prenatal, birthing, postpartum, and pediatric care providers, empowering them to make informed decisions about their healthcare and hold the medical system accountable.
Fostering Community, Advocacy, and Empowerment
Black Supermamas is a safe and supportive space created to uplift and empower Black mothers as they navigate the challenges of motherhood. By fostering a network of support and sharing resources, the organization is working to counter the isolation and stigma that many Black mothers face, promoting healing and resilience.
The National Birth Equity Collaborative (NBEC), on the other hand, is a leading organization focused on improving the sexual and reproductive well-being of Black women and birthing people worldwide.
Through training, research, technical assistance, policy, advocacy, and community-centered collaboration, NBEC is targeting the root causes of maternal health disparities and shifting systems and culture for the betterment of Black mothers and families.
Expanding Access to Doula Support and Maternal Health Resources
Love Delivered, a new program from the partners of the founder of Carol’s Daughter and the Mama Glow Foundation, is committed to empowering, supporting, and equipping Black birthing people and their communities to advocate for their health and wellness.
By providing expanded access to doula services, trainings for doulas, and a range of resources, the program aims to improve positive birthing experiences and outcomes for Black mothers and their families.
Mamatoto Village, on another hand, is dedicated to serving Black women through the creation of career pathways in maternal health and the provision of accessible perinatal support services.
By addressing the systemic barriers and inequities that contribute to poor maternal health outcomes for Black women, Mamatoto Village is working to transform the landscape of maternal care and empower Black women to take charge of their reproductive health.
Advocating for Policy Change and Driving Systemic Transformation
The Black Maternal Health Caucus, a group of members of the U.S. Congress, is focused on addressing the Black maternal health crisis.
Through legislative action and collaboration with advocacy groups, the Caucus is committed to addressing the systemic barriers and racism that contribute to the high rates of maternal mortality and morbidity among Black women, ensuring that all mothers have access to the care and support they need.
The Blavatnik Family Women’s Health Research Institute, on the other hand, is dedicated to addressing health inequities and improving the lives of the diverse women they serve in Harlem and across New York City. By conducting research and providing compassionate care across the entire spectrum of women’s health, the institute is making strides in advancing maternal health equity.
These initiatives, each with its unique approach, are at the forefront of the fight for Black maternal health.
As we commemorate Black Maternal Health Week, we recognize the tireless efforts of these organizations and the impact they are making in the lives of Black mothers and families across the country.
