Black Maternal Health Legislative Summit was held Thursday, October 17, and Friday, October 18, 2024, in Richmond, VA. Hosted by Virginia Speaker of the House Delegate Don Scott and Virginia Senate President Pro Tempore Senator L. Louise Lucas, this summit was a remarkable gathering of over 50 state legislators from 12 states, along with key figures from across the country.
We were honored to be joined by US Representatives Bobby Scott, Jennifer McClellan, and Abigail Spanberger, as well as Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin and Richmond Mayor Levar Stoney. Additionally, over 100 community, business, and health stakeholders came together to engage in meaningful discussions and create a path forward to improve Black maternal health outcomes.
Our deepest thanks also go to our partners and supporters, including Mom Congress, the Virginia Hospital and Healthcare Association, Anthem, Philips, Fund II Foundation, the Virginia Nurses Association, Sentara, FedEX, HCA, the Medical Society of Virginia, State Innovation Exchange, and March of Dimes. Your commitment and contributions made this event possible and impactful.
For those who were unable to attend or wish to revisit the conversations, we have video recordings of all sessions as well as photos from the event. We will be sharing these resources with you shortly.
As we move forward, here are the next steps:
- Review the legislative priorities discussed and begin drafting state-specific action plans.
- Engage with local communities and stakeholders to continue the momentum from the summit.
- Collaborate with our partners to push for the introduction of Black Maternal Health legislation in the upcoming sessions.
Thank you again for your dedication to improving Black maternal health. Your leadership and partnership are essential as we continue this critical work.
Black Maternal Health Virginia Legislative Summit Media Clips
Virginia Mercury: ‘Momnibus bill’ plans announced at Virginia’s Black Maternal Health Summit
ABC 8/ WAVY 10/DC News Now: Virginia host state lawmakers from across U.S. for summit on Black maternal health
Richmond Times-Dispatch: Virginia Legislators plan comprehensive maternal health bill