SOMA Living March 2024

COALITION ON RACE March is National Women’s History Month, and this year we celebrate “Women Who Advocate for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion.” In line with this theme, the Community Coalition on Race dedicated their second Black History Month program to spotlighting the racial disparities and inequities Black women face in healthcare access. The event featured a screening of “Birthing Justice,” a powerful documentary uncovering the stark racial differences in mortality, complications, and treatment between Black and white mothers. This documentary highlights that Black mothers are two to three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related complications, with the majority of these deaths being preventable. After the film, a panel of local women of color shared their personal stories, shedding light on the challenges they face and proposing solutions to address the healthcare inequities among Black women. Addressing these health disparities requires a comprehensive, intersectional approach that tackles social determinants of health, systemic inequities, implicit bias, and the impact of racism. Key to this effort are initiatives aimed at improving healthcare access, offering culturally competent services, expanding education, and addressing the root causes of these disparities. Community members can contribute by supporting educational programs that raise awareness, backing initiatives that broaden access to affordable healthcare, and advocating for policies that foster health equity. Together, we can make a difference in achieving health equity for Black women.

Nancy Gagnier, Executive Director of the South Orange/ Maplewood Community Coalition on Race, develops pro-integrative strategies to support racial equity and inclusion.

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