Charlotte Conference Aims to Improve Black Maternal Health

A conference held in Charlotte on Thursday marked the beginning of National Black Maternal Health Week, focusing on the challenges faced by Black women during pregnancy and ways to enhance their outcomes. The event, which took place at Friendship Missionary Baptist Church on Beatties Ford Road, drew a large crowd eager to address disparities in maternal health.

Addressing Root Causes Beyond Medical Care

Organized by Care Ring, the conference aimed to shed light on the factors affecting Black women’s pregnancies beyond medical treatment. Tchernavia Montgomery, the CEO of Care Ring, emphasized the importance of addressing issues such as food insecurity, homelessness, and mental health among Black pregnant women to bridge the existing gaps in maternal healthcare.

Montgomery stated, “We want women to be healthy; we want babies to be born healthy and happy.” This holistic approach towards maternal health seeks to tackle societal challenges that impact Black women during pregnancy.

Disparities in Maternal Health

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Black women are three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related complications, despite the preventable nature of over 80% of these deaths. This alarming statistic underscores the urgency of addressing systemic issues and improving overall maternal health outcomes for Black women.

Community Engagement and Solutions

Yhenneko Taylor, the assistant vice president for Analytics and Outcomes Research at Atrium Health, emphasized the need for community involvement in finding solutions to enhance Black maternal health. Taylor stressed the importance of including Black women and families in discussions and decision-making processes, highlighting the value of lived experiences in shaping effective interventions.

Solidarity Walk for Black Maternal Health

To further raise awareness and support the cause of improving Black maternal health, Care Ring will organize a solidarity walk at Marshall Park on April 20, starting at 11 a.m. The event invites parents with strollers and community members to participate in advocating for better maternal health outcomes for Black women.

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