Every year, Black Maternal Health Week takes place from April 11-17. This week is all about shining a light on the alarming maternal health crisis that Black women are facing in America.
The sad truth is, Black women are dying at disproportionately high rates during pregnancy and childbirth. In fact, the maternal mortality rate for Black women is over 2.5 times higher than the rate for white women. This is completely unacceptable.
But the good news is, there are some amazing organizations out there that are working hard to change this reality. These groups are dedicated to improving maternal health outcomes for Black women through a variety of initiatives – from providing doula support, to advocating for policy change, to empowering Black mothers through community-based programs.
So in honor of Black Maternal Health Week, let’s take a closer look at 10 of these impactful organizations (reference: Essence.com) that are making a real difference in the lives of Black mothers and families.
From the East Coast to the West Coast, these groups are leading the charge to ensure that Black women have access to the care, resources, and support they need before, during, and after childbirth.
1. Ancient Song Doula Services
Ancient Song Doula Services is a national organization working to eliminate the high rates of death and complications among Black and Latina mothers and babies. They provide doula training and services, community education, and advocate for policy changes to support reproductive and birth justice.
The organization recognizes that Black women are disproportionately affected by maternal mortality and morbidity in the United States. By offering doula support and promoting policy change, Ancient Song Doula Services aims to improve health outcomes and ensure that all mothers have access to quality, culturally-competent care.
2. Black Mamas Matter Alliance (BMMA)
The Black Mamas Matter Alliance is a national network of Black women-led and Black-led organizations and professionals working to address the full spectrum of maternal and reproductive health. They are at the forefront of the Black maternal health crisis, elevating the issue and advancing policy solutions.
BMMA’s mission is to ensure that all Black mamas have the rights, respect, and resources to thrive before, during, and after pregnancy. By bringing together diverse stakeholders, the alliance is driving critical change to improve maternal health outcomes and end the disparities faced by Black women.
3. The Black Maternal Health Caucus
The Black Maternal Health Caucus is a group of members of the U.S. Congress who are focused on addressing the Black maternal health crisis. They work to elevate this issue within Congress and advocate for policy solutions to improve maternal health outcomes and eliminate racial disparities.
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. Their efforts aim to ensure that all mothers have access to the care and support they need.
4. Black Supermamas
Black Supermamas is a safe and supportive space created to uplift and empower Black mothers as they navigate the challenges of motherhood. The organization’s purpose is to address the emotional, mental, and physical well-being of Black mothers, providing a community where they can be seen and heard.
By fostering a network of support and sharing resources, Black Supermamas is working to counter the isolation and stigma that many Black mothers face. The group’s holistic approach helps to strengthen Black mothers and families, promoting healing and resilience.
5. The Blavatnik Family Women’s Health Research Institute
The Blavatnik Family Women’s Health Research Institute is dedicated to addressing health inequities and improving the lives of the diverse women they serve in Harlem and across New York City. The institute’s multidisciplinary team conducts research and provides compassionate care across the entire spectrum of women’s health.
Through their work, the institute aims to fill in the knowledge gaps and develop innovative solutions to the challenges faced by women, particularly those from underserved communities. By focusing on areas such as obstetrics, gynecology, and reproductive science, the institute is making strides in advancing maternal health equity.
6. Irth
Irth is a groundbreaking app that is fighting to end racism in maternity care. The platform serves as a “Yelp-like” resource for Black and brown women to find reviews and ratings of prenatal, birthing, postpartum, and pediatric care providers.
By empowering women to share their experiences and make informed decisions about their healthcare, Irth is working to hold the medical system accountable and improve the quality of care for Black and brown mothers and families. The app is a critical tool in the fight for maternal health equity.
7. Love Delivered
Love Delivered is a new program from the partners of the founder of Carol’s Daughter and the Mama Glow Foundation. This initiative is committed to empowering, supporting, and equipping Black birthing people and their communities to advocate for their health and wellness.
Love Delivered provides expanded access to doula services, trainings for doulas, and a range of resources to inform and support families, birth workers, partners, and allies. By investing in this comprehensive approach, the program aims to improve positive birthing experiences and outcomes for Black mothers and their families.
8. Mama Glow
Mama Glow is a premier maternity lifestyle brand in New York, 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.
The organization’s commitment to serving women and families includes providing premium doula support at every stage of the childbearing journey. Mama Glow’s multifaceted approach empowers women with the necessary tools and support to navigate the challenges of pregnancy and new motherhood.
9. Mamatoto Village
Mamatoto Village is a devoted organization that serves Black women through the creation of career pathways in maternal health and the provision of accessible perinatal support services. Their mission is to equip women with the knowledge and resources to make informed decisions about their maternity care, parenting, and overall well-being.
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.
10. National Birth Equity Collaborative (NBEC)
The National Birth Equity Collaborative (NBEC) is a leading organization focused on improving the sexual and reproductive well-being of Black women and birthing people worldwide. NBEC creates solutions to address the alarming rates of Black maternal mortality and morbidity through training, research, technical assistance, policy, advocacy, and community-centered collaboration.
NBEC’s multifaceted approach targets the root causes of maternal health disparities, working to shift systems and culture for the betterment of Black mothers and families. Their dedication to advancing birth equity is crucial in the fight to eradicate the Black maternal health crisis.
