As we approach Black Maternal Health Week from April 11-17, 2025, the urgency to address the stark disparities in maternal health outcomes for Black women has never been more critical. At Urban Mommy Inc., we are proud to be part of this national movement aimed at advocating for systemic changes that will ensure the health and well-being of Black mothers and their families.

The Crisis We Face

Black women in the United States are three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related complications than their white counterparts. This heartbreaking reality is not just a statistic—it signifies a systemic failure that has deep roots in our society. Despite advances in healthcare, nearly 60% of maternal deaths among Black women are preventable. These outcomes reflect a confluence of factors, including access to quality healthcare, systemic racism, and socioeconomic disparities.

As an organization dedicated to uplifting mothers of color, Urban Mommy recognizes that we must confront these issues head-on and advocate for the changes necessary to ensure that all mothers—regardless of race—have the opportunity for safe and fulfilling pregnancies.

Healing Legacies Through Collective Action

This year’s theme for Black Maternal Health Week, “Healing Legacies: Strengthening Black Maternal Health through Collective Action and Advocacy,” embodies the heart of our mission at Urban Mommy. We believe that by galvanizing our community—families, healthcare providers, advocacy groups, and policymakers—we can create a network of support that empowers Black mothers.

Our initiatives are designed to not only raise awareness about these disparities but also to provide accessible resources, education, and communal support. Through our “I Make Humans Project,” we engage in advocacy that brings conversations about Black maternal health to the forefront, aiming to influence both local and national legislation.

What to Expect During Black Maternal Health Week

From educational workshops and community health fairs to advocacy events and cultural exhibits, Urban Mommy has a variety of plans to engage our community during Black Maternal Health Week. Each event aims to educate and empower individuals while fostering discussions about how we can collectively dismantle the barriers faced by Black mothers.

• Community Health Fairs: These events will provide vital health screenings and resources to mothers in our community, ensuring that they have access to the information they need to make informed health decisions for themselves and their families. More details to follow.
• Educational Workshops: We will host workshops that focus on navigating maternal healthcare, understanding rights, and early childhood education. These discussions will empower mothers to advocate for their health and the health of their children.
• Advocacy: Come join us as we take to the streets and raise our voices for equitable maternal healthcare policies. Our advocacy efforts are crucial in demanding systemic change from policymakers and emphasizing the urgency of our cause. We will post on how you can join our email campaign.
• Cultural Celebrations: we are partnering with a mired of Chicago Organizations. We will celebrate the strength and resilience of Black motherhood, honoring the legacies of those who have come before us.

How You Can Get Involved

Black Maternal Health Week is not just for organizations like Urban Mommy—it’s for everyone who believes in uplifting our communities. Here’s how you can participate:

1. Attend Events: Mark your calendars and come to our workshops, health fairs, and rallies. Your presence strengthens our collective voice!
2. Advocate for Change: Contact your local representatives, share your experiences, and promote policies that prioritize equitable maternal healthcare.
3. Raise Awareness: Share information on social media using the hashtags #BlackMaternalHealthWeek and #UrbanMommy. The more we spread the word, the louder our call for change will be.
4. Support Our Mission: Visit our website and engage with our programs. Together, we can create a supportive network for mothers of color.

Let’s work together.

Together, we have the power to transform the narrative around Black maternal health. As Black Maternal Health Week draws near, Urban Mommy stands resolute in our commitment to advocating for a future where all mothers—regardless of their race—can experience healthy pregnancies and nurturing postpartum periods.

Join us in this crucial battle for justice, equity, and health. Let’s work together to erase the disparities and heal the legacies of our community—one voice, one family, and one action at a time.

For more information about our events and initiatives, please visit our website at http://www.urbanmommyinc.org (http://www.urbanmommyinc.org) or reach out to us at urbanmommyorg@gmail.com (mailto:urbanmommyorg@gmail.com). We look forward to seeing you during Black Maternal Health Week!

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