Rochester is recognizing an important issue that’s often overlooked, proclaiming April 11-17 Black Maternal Health Week.
Wednesday, the Rochester Black Nurses Association (RBNA) received a proclamation for its work, urging the city to support the group’s ongoing effort in mitigating disparities in maternal health care.
“Black women are reporting their symptoms, but are you listening? Are providers listening? Are legislators listening? Do you see her? says RBNA President Celia McIntosh. “The consequences of Black and brown mothers not being heard are many including motherless children, and broken families. Everyone can play a role in improving maternal health outcomes.”
The group called for the city, county, and state officials to act on the following:
- Support and sign the Momnibus Act 2023
- Dedicate funds to support the fight against BMH disparities
- Better Doula pay/reimbursement
- Extended postpartum medical/mental health coverage
The committee was formed in 2021 after reports found 60 percent of pregnancy-related complications were preventable, with Black women 2.3 times more likely to experience them.
“My journey into motherhood was one I anticipated with joy and hope,” says Meeka Johnakin, a nurse and member of RBNA. “I believed that meant being protected, respected, and equally provided for but it didn’t. However, my experience revealed a harsh reality. I was sadly mistaken, and rudely reminded that being a human overshadowed my human rights, social economic status, educational background, as well as professional titles.”
“We have a lot of programs, but why aren’t they working?” asked McIntosh.
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