This week is Black Maternal Health Week, led by the Black Mamas Matter Alliance. This years theme is “Building for Liberation Centering Black Mamas, Families & Systems of Care.”
Access to quality health care should not depend on someone’s zip code, economic status or race. Yet, Black women are 3X more likely than White women to die from pregnancy-related causes. We have to raise awareness about the lack of health equity that contributes to pregnancy-related complications, as well as higher infant and maternal mortality rates.
Health equity for Black mamas is a national issue but Friday, a virtual discussion will discuss how it impacts the KC metro. The free virtual event will amplify the voices that are a part of the birth justice movements and address racism in Black maternal health care. 5th District Councilwomen Ryana Parks Shaw shares more.