Black Maternity Health Week: Resources & organizations to check out

Photo: PeopleImages / iStock / Getty Images It’s been one year since President Joe Biden officially proclaimed April 11 through April 17 as Black Maternal Health Week. The seven-day observance shines a light on Black mothers who struggle with pregnancy or maternity-related complications due to various obstacles and dangers. The Centers for Disease Control says Black women are three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than white women. Healthcare access and quality, underlying chronic conditions, implicit bias, and structural racism are some of the factors contributing to these disparities. Despite the statistics, several independent organizations are rallying to make childbirth safer for Black mothers across the country. While Black Maternal Health Week highlights Black mothers’ challenges, it’s also an opportunity to bring attention to resources, support, and vital information throughout the process. Below are some organizations and influential collectives established to assist Black mothers, protect their reproductive rights, or advance the birth justice movement. Every Mother Counts This global organization partners with other advocacy groups to advance maternal health, especially in undeveloped nations. They also have a presence in the United States, where they spotlight high maternal mortality rates and obstacles to care. Every Mother Counts links important...