In celebration of Black Maternal Health Week, Black Love is shining a light on the remarkable work of organizations, like the Black Mamas Matter Alliance (BMMA), that provide resources to Black mothers across the globe. This week is about more than acknowledging the challenges; it’s about empowering and uplifting Black moms everywhere.
So, what exactly is Black Maternal Health Week? It’s an annual, week-long campaign from April 11 to 17, originally created by BMMA in 2017 and later recognized by the federal government in 2021. The week is dedicated to raising awareness about the maternal health crisis facing Black women in the United States. It’s a time to address the disparities in maternal health outcomes and advocate for policies and solutions that prioritize the well-being of Black mothers.
Why is it important, you ask? The statistics speak volumes. Black women in the U.S. are three to four times more likely to die from pregnancy-related complications than their white counterparts. These disparities persist regardless of income or education level, highlighting systemic issues deeply rooted in racism and inequity within the healthcare system.
Black Maternal Health Week serves as a platform to amplify the voices of Black mothers and advocates, driving conversations around access to quality healthcare, culturally competent care, and the elimination of racial bias in maternal health services.
Founded in 2018, the Black Mamas Matter Alliance has been at the forefront of this movement, advocating for policies and practices that center the experiences of Black mothers. Through their advocacy efforts, they work to address the social determinants of health, promote reproductive justice, and advance maternal health equity for all Black women.
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But it’s not just about advocacy; BMMA also provides resources and support for Black mothers navigating the complexities of pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care. From educational toolkits to community-based initiatives, they strive to ensure that every Black mother has access to the care and support she deserves.
As we celebrate Black Maternal Health Week, let’s not only acknowledge the challenges but also recognize the resilience, strength, and beauty of Black motherhood. Together, we can work towards a future where every Black mother receives the care, support, and respect she deserves. Keep reading for more information and resources:
Black Mamas Matter Alliance (BMMA): Visit their website for a wealth of resources, including:
- Toolkit Library: Access educational toolkits on topics such as maternal mental health, birthing justice, and breastfeeding support.
- Policy Briefs: Stay informed about policy issues affecting Black maternal health and learn how to get involved in advocacy efforts.
- Community Resources: Find support groups, community organizations, and healthcare providers committed to Black maternal health.
Sistersong: This organization focuses on reproductive justice and offers resources and support specifically tailored to the needs of Black women and femmes, including:
- Reproductive Justice Toolkit: Access resources and information on reproductive rights, health equity, and activism.
- Healing and Wellness Resources: Find culturally competent healthcare providers, therapists, and wellness programs.
National Birth Equity Collaborative (NBEC): Dedicated to eliminating racial disparities in maternal and infant health, NBEC offers resources, training, and advocacy opportunities, such as:
- Training Programs: Participate in workshops and training sessions aimed at healthcare professionals, advocates, and community members.
- Policy Advocacy Tools: Access resources to advocate for policies that promote birth equity and improve maternal health outcomes.
Black Women’s Health Imperative: This organization focuses on promoting health and wellness among Black women and offers resources such as:
- Health Education Materials: Access fact sheets, brochures, and guides on various health topics relevant to Black women, including maternal health.
- Virtual Support Groups: Join online communities and support groups to connect with other Black mothers and share experiences.
- Maternal Health Webinars: Attend webinars on topics like prenatal care, childbirth education, and postpartum wellness.
Kindred Space LA: Kindred Space LA was born in 2018 in response to the Black maternity health crisis affecting Black birthing people in this country.
- Prenatal Care: Clients receive inclusive care with complete prenatal support, including screening and lab work. The prenatal visits make time and space for the physical, emotional and practical preparation for birth and life with a newborn.
- Midwives: The midwifery team is on call for the client in the weeks leading up to and after the estimated due date. When the birthing day arrives, the midwives are prepared with necessary equipment to blend the mystical and medical to hold space for a safe birth.
Therapy for Black Girls: Mental health is an essential component of maternal well-being. Therapy for Black Girls offers a directory of therapists specializing in supporting Black women and girls, including:
- Therapist Directory: Find therapists who specialize in maternal mental health, trauma-informed care, and perinatal mood disorders.
- Online Support Resources: Access articles, podcasts, and webinars on mental health topics relevant to Black mothers.
- Therapy Sessions: Schedule virtual therapy sessions with licensed therapists trained to address the unique needs of Black women during pregnancy and postpartum.
The Black Maternal Health Caucus is a bipartisan group of lawmakers in the United States Congress focused on addressing maternal health disparities among black women. They introduce legislation, raise awareness, and advocate for policy changes.
This organization provides doula services, childbirth education, and advocacy specifically tailored to the needs of Black families. They aim to improve birth outcomes and empower black birthing individuals.
Birthmark Doula Collective offers doula services and community support for Black mothers and families. They focus on providing culturally competent care and advocating for equitable access to maternal health resources.
Blk + Grn is a marketplace that exclusively features Black-owned wellness and beauty brands, including products geared towards maternal health such as prenatal supplements, skincare, and self-care items.