Black Maternal Health Collective
The City of Columbia, in partnership with the Black Maternal Health Collective, held a press conference on April 4 to announce a series of events for the very first Black Maternal Health Week. Black Maternal Health Week, based on the Black Mama’s Matter Initiative, is a week of awareness, activism, and community-building with the goals of deepening the statewide conversation about black maternal health in the U.S. by amplifying community-driven policy, research, and care solutions; centering the voices of black mamas, women, families, and stakeholders; and providing a platform for black-led entities and efforts on maternal health, birth, and reproductive justice. Councilwoman Aditi Bussells announced the City’s signature event, a health and resource fair, which was held April 6 at the Drew Wellness Center. Speakers also announced plans for a full week of educational forms and other activities to bring awareness to Black Maternal Health Week.
Speakers at the press conference included Councilwoman Aditi Bussells; Councilwoman Tina Herbert; Rhonda Sims, founder of the Black Maternal Health Collective; Dr. Kari-Claudia Allen Harrington, M.D., Prisma Health, Family Medicine Physician; Coroner Naida Rutherford; and District 77 Representative Kambrell H. Garvin. Mayor Daniel Rickenmann presented a proclamation for Black Maternal Health Week.
Thursday, April 12—“Talk with Doc” Part 1
Join participants for an open conversation with black led OB physicians about safe labor, delivery, navigating the hospital, and how to create a livable birth plan—Location: Richland Library Main, 1431 Assembly Street, 5:30–7 p.m.
Saturday, April 13— Birthing Justice film with panel Q&A
View the cutting edge film on Birthing Justice by Olympic medalist Allyson Felix. After viewing the film there will be an open Q&A discussion with leaders who support birthing families—Epic Events, 125 Outlet Pointe Boulevard Suite A&B, 10 a.m.–2 p.m.
Wednesday, April 17—“Talk with Doc” Part 2
Join participants for an open dialogue on topics such as medicated vs. un-medicated births, how to advocate for yourself during pregnancy, and how to choose your care team to support you during and after pregnancy—Richland County Library Main 1431 Assembly Street, 5:30–7 p.m.
Black Maternal Health Facts
In 2021, the maternal mortality rate for non-Hispanic black women was 69.9 deaths per 100,000 live births, 2.6 times the rate for non-Hispanic white women (Source: CDC).
In the U.S. black women are three times more likely to die from a pregnancy-related cause than white women. CDC notes that more than 80 percent of pregnancy related deaths are preventable (Source: CDC).
To register and learn more about all Black Maternal Health Week events, visit colabmhweek.com.