Launch of Black Maternal Health Equity Caucus Network
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Black Legislative Leaders Network Announces the Launch of Black Maternal Health Equity Caucus Network to address Black Maternal Health Equity within key State Legislatures
[January 22, 2023] — On the fourth annual observance of Maternal Health Awareness Day, the Black Legislative Leaders Network (BLLN) proudly announced the establishment of the Black Maternal Health Equity Caucus Network. Focused on states with alarming rates of maternal mortality and high percentages of Black births, this groundbreaking initiative will initially launch in Virginia, Mississippi, Louisiana, and Georgia—states ranking in the top 10 for both high maternal mortality rates and the highest percentages of Black births.
Building on the momentum created by pioneering states like Pennsylvania and Ohio, the Black Maternal Health Equity Caucuses are committed to addressing systemic disparities through a multifaceted approach. Fund II Foundation, known for its dedication to social change, joins as a crucial partner in this effort.
These caucuses will undertake impactful measures, including town hall meetings, introduction of comprehensive legislation, legislative briefings, advocacy events, documentary screenings, and participation in national conferences and workshops, all aimed at improving Black maternal health outcomes.
"We invite legislators across the nation to join us in championing Black maternal health equity. Together, with the support of the Black Lives Matter Foundation and Fund II Foundation, we aim to create a brighter, more equitable future for Black mothers and families in our southern states," said TN State Representative and House Minority Leader Karen Camper, co-founder of BLLN.
Key Initiatives of the Black Maternal Health Equity Caucuses:
- Town Hall or Stakeholder Meetings: Facilitating open dialogues between legislators and the public to address key issues and garner support for change.
- Introduction of MoMnibus/Mommas Act Styled Legislation: Proposing comprehensive legislation that mirrors the federal MoMnibus Act, targeting the multifaceted challenges faced by Black mothers.
- Legislative Briefings: Ensuring informed decision-making through briefings on proposed legislation and its potential impact.
- Day on the Hill Advocacy Event: Engaging with constituents and legislators to raise awareness about the urgent need for change in Black maternal health outcomes.
- Screening of “Birthing Justice”: Partnering to showcase the documentary “Birthing Justice” to highlight the stark realities of Black maternal health disparities.
- Participation in Mom Congress (May 2024): Sending delegates to connect with leaders and advocates nationwide to bring new insights to the Black maternal health crisis.
- Workshop at NOBEL-Women (August 2024): Sharing experiences, insights, and progress with a wider audience of dedicated women state legislators.
For further assistance or inquiries, please click here to visit the Black Maternal Health Equity Caucus Network website or contact Jasper Hendricks at [email protected] or 615.512.6506.