Black mamas to the front because it’s Black Maternal Health Week! Annually from April 11-17th, the Black Mamas Matter Alliance builds awareness, activism, and community as they champion the importance of showcasing Black mamas and Black women in the birthing space. Since 2020 when the world slowed down, our world as Black people has become more visible to the masses, as did the alarming maternal mortality rates, but this week is not just about that data; it’s about the celebration of our magical bodies who bring forth life! Every year, BMMA sets a theme for the week, and this year’s official theme is “Our Bodies Belong to Us: Restoring Black Autonomy and Joy!” We invite you to lean into that joy with us because bringing forth life is a miracle filled that deserves to be celebrated. If you’re looking for ways to honor Black Maternal Health Week, consider these suggestions.
Educate yourself on Black maternal health
Allow yourself some time this week to read, research, and follow communities championing Black maternal health, and speak with Black doulas, doctors, and midwives on the realities of Black women giving birth and the importance of spreading awareness to end the cycle of Black women dying as a result of childbirth. The more information we have, the more we’re able to ask for what we need and have autonomy over our birth experiences.
Celebrate the Black mamas in your life
Love on the Black mamas in your life and spread joy to them! Let them know they’re seen, their experiences are valid, and that you and grateful for their presence in your lives. An additional tip, if you know any expectant or new mamas, do something special for them. Give them a call and ask what they need, send a small gift, or just show up and be a help to them.
These Black Doulas and Midwives Are Challenging Maternal Mortality Statistics
Why Birth Stories From Black Women Matter
What Does a Doula Do?
Donate to the Black Mamas Matter Alliance
Donating to BMMA helps them continue to do great work and have programming to educate and spread awareness! Be part of the movement to advance Black Maternal Health, Rights, and Justice! Supporting them is supporting the work to ensure Black mamas thrive before, during, and after pregnancy.
Remember, Black motherhood is magical
Black maternal health week, and Black motherhood is more than the statistics. It’s a sacred experience that we should be fortunate to have. The data and discussions of maternal mortality aren’t to place fear in our hearts and wombs. They’re to rally for justice in the elimination of mortality and to equip us and arm us with information so that we can have as much protection as we can as we bring life into the world.
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