Bichotte Hermelyn, Webb address maternal and infant mortality crisis during Black Maternal Health Week

Asseemblywoman Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn with her son, Daniel, Sen. Lea Webb, third from left, Sen. Roxaane Persaud, left, and other elected officials and advocates. Photo courtesy Office of Assembly Member Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn Sign up for our Caribbean Life email newsletter to get news, updates, and local insights delivered straight to your inbox! State Assemblywoman Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn, State Sen. Lea Webb, other lawmakers, maternal healthcare experts and advocates on Monday convened at the New York State Capitol Building during Black Maternal Health Week to rally for legislation and action addressing the maternal mortality crisis. The issue includes what they described as “the shocking spike in infant mortality and deadly health disparities disproportionately damaging Black mothers.” New York State legislators spoke on advancing a Maternal Health Equity Agenda: sweeping legislation to combat skyrocketing maternal and infant mortality rates in New York, tackle racial and socioeconomic disparities, and create comprehensive reforms addressing the crisis’ leading causes. The Maternal Health Equity Agenda includes legislation to address this crisis through comprehensive actions combating the unacceptable racial disparities in maternal mortality. Also focusing on the 7th Annual Black Maternal Health Week’s theme of  “Our Bodies STILL Belong to Us: Reproductive Justice NOW!” elected officials...