In the fight for equity and justice in healthcare, the voices of Black mothers and babies must be amplified and celebrated. According to a study by the National Institute of Health, Black women in the United States disproportionately experience adverse pregnancy outcomes, including maternal mortality, compared to women of other racial and ethnic groups. Historical legacies of institutionalized racism and bias in medicine compound this problem. In an effort to combat this persistent problem, organizations led by passionate individuals are working tirelessly to address these issues head-on. Let's shine a spotlight on five inspiring Black-led organizations dedicated to improving Black maternal and infant health outcomes.
Black Mamas Matter Alliance (BMMA): At the forefront of the movement for Black maternal health, BMMA is a collective of Black women-led organizations advocating for policies and practices that center the experiences of Black mothers. Through advocacy, research, and community organizing, BMMA strives to dismantle systemic barriers and promote holistic, culturally competent care for Black mothers.
Ancient Song Doula Services: Ancient Song Doula Services is committed to providing comprehensive doula care and support to Black birthing individuals and families. Founded by Chanel Porchia-Albert, a renowned doula and maternal health advocate, this organization offers childbirth education, lactation support, and doula training programs rooted in cultural humility and reproductive justice.
Birthing Beautiful Communities (BBC): Based in Cleveland, Ohio, BBC is a grassroots organization dedicated to reducing racial disparities in birth outcomes. Led by Christin Farmer, BBC provides doula services, prenatal education, and community-based support to Black pregnant individuals, empowering them to navigate pregnancy and childbirth with dignity and respect.
National Birth Equity Collaborative (NBEC): NBEC is on a mission to achieve birth equity for Black families by addressing the social determinants of maternal and infant health. Founded by Dr. Joia Crear-Perry, a leading advocate for reproductive justice, NBEC works to advance policy solutions, expand access to quality care, and promote community-driven solutions to improve Black birth outcomes.
SisterSong Women of Color Reproductive Justice Collective: SisterSong is a powerhouse organization amplifying the voices of women of color in the reproductive justice movement. Led by Monica Simpson and rooted in intersectionality, SisterSong advocates for policies that prioritize the health and well-being of marginalized communities, including comprehensive reproductive healthcare and support for Black mothers and families.
Savings Mothers: Saving Mothers is a non-profit organization dedicated to improving maternal health and reducing maternal mortality rates in low-resource settings worldwide. Through education, training, and the implementation of sustainable healthcare initiatives, the organization strives to empower local healthcare providers and communities to address the root causes of maternal mortality. Their comprehensive approach includes programs focused on prenatal care, safe childbirth practices, postpartum support, and access to essential obstetric services. Saving Mothers aims to create lasting change and ensure that every mother has the opportunity to receive quality maternal healthcare, regardless of where she lives. Nanit is currently supporting Saving Mothers in establishing the Maternal Continuum of Care Program in Kenya.
Nanit is proud to partner with Saving Mothers on a long-term initiative to eradicate preventable maternal deaths and birth-related complications in underserved communities. Through donations, education based content, expert events, and give back elements, we will raise funds and awareness to create solutions designed to improve prenatal care services, facilitate safe births and strengthen maternal health outcomes.
As we continue to confront the systemic inequities that impact Black maternal and infant health, these Black-led organizations serve as beacons of hope and resilience. By centering the voices and experiences of Black mothers and babies, they are driving meaningful change and paving the way for a future where every Black family can thrive. Let's support and uplift their vital work as we strive for health equity and justice for all.
