Honoring Black Maternal Health Week: A Call for Awareness, Equity, and Support

Every year, from April 11–17, we observe Black Maternal Health Week, a powerful time to reflect, advocate, and amplify the voices of Black mothers and birthing people across the nation. This week, founded by the Black Mamas Matter Alliance, shines a light on the deep disparities in maternal health outcomes and the urgent need for systemic change.

Why Black Maternal Health Matters

Black women in the United States are three to four times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than white women. These statistics aren’t explained by income, education, or lifestyle. They’re the result of deeply rooted systemic inequities like: racism in healthcare, gaps in access to quality prenatal and postpartum care, and the dismissal of Black women’s pain and concerns.

These are not just numbers. They are mothers, daughters, partners, friends...lives that matter.

This Week Is About More Than Awareness

Black Maternal Health Week is a time to:

Uplift stories of Black mothers and birthing people

Listen to and believe Black women and families

Advocate for policies that support equitable care and reproductive justice

Celebrate community-led solutions and culturally competent care

Hold space for healing, connection, and collective care

What We Can Do

Whether you’re a birth worker, a parent, a healthcare provider, or someone who simply cares, there are ways to show up:

Learn about and support organizations like Black Mamas Matter Alliance, BLK Maternal Health Collective, The Shades of Blue Project and others doing the work.

Share Black maternal stories, not just the trauma, but also the joy, strength, and resilience.

Push for accountability and transparency in your local healthcare systems.

Create and support safe, affirming spaces where Black mothers can rest, recover, and thrive.

A Note of Solidarity

At Community Motherhood, we believe in a future where every mom is seen, heard, and supported. This week, and every week, we recommit to creating spaces that honor the lived experiences of Black mothers, where healing is nurtured and community is built from the heart.

Let’s continue the conversation, take action, and stand in solidarity.