Addressing Health Disparities: The Difficulties Faced by Black and Brown Families in Indiana

As a registered nurse, lactation consultant, postpartum doula, and mother, I have witnessed firsthand the pressing issues many Black women encounter during and after childbirth. Alarmingly, a significant number of these women are dying, and countless infants are failing to celebrate their first birthdays. Families often grapple with inadequate culturally competent support.This reality motivated me to establish MelaMama Maternal Wellness Inc. and organize a community resource fair three years ago. Partnering with the Indiana Breastfeeding Coalition over the past two years enables us to deliver vital support, education, and healing to underserved families.We invite you to join us on Saturday, August 23, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the OrthoIndy Foundation YMCA for our third annual event honoring Black Breastfeeding Week. This year's theme, “Boots on the Ground: Rooted in Breastfeeding Success, Grounded in Community Support,” reflects our mission in Indianapolis. This fair embodies a movement—offering lactation assistance, safety resources, diapers, and joyful activities. Beyond the festivities lies a profound commitment to transforming maternal health narratives for Black and Brown families in Indiana.Our initiative thrives on community support. Local businesses and health care providers have generously contributed, and we aspire to expand this network further. If you represent a...