Last month, we had the opportunity to attend Governor Josh Stein’s signing of a proclamation that officially proclaimed April 11-17 as Black Maternal Health Week, joining a national movement to amplify the voices of Black mamas and healthcare advocates.
Why This Matters for Durham
The proclamation isn’t just a ceremony—it’s a call to action. In North Carolina, Black women are nearly three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than white women. These statistics aren’t just numbers; they represent our neighbors, friends, and family members.
Governor Stein’s announcement emphasized several key initiatives that align with our work here at Breastfeed Durham:
- Expanding Access to Care: Continuous efforts to ensure that Medicaid and other support systems reach those who need them most.
- Investing in Doulas and Community Health Workers: Recognizing that culturally congruent care—having a support team that understands your lived experience—is life-saving.
- Addressing Systemic Bias: Moving beyond “lifestyle” explanations to address the structural racism within healthcare systems that leads to disparate outcomes.
What’s Next?
While Black Maternal Health Week is a time of focused awareness, our commitment is year-round. We continue to advocate for policies that support paid family leave, breastfeeding-friendly workplaces, and equitable healthcare access in Durham.
Take Action: We encourage you to read the Governor’s full proclamation and learn more about the state’s ongoing efforts to ensure every mother in North Carolina has a safe and joyful birthing experience.
Read More: Governor Stein Recognizes Black Maternal Health Week