We are in a maternal health crisis.

New Jersey’s maternal mortality rate for Black women is more than 7-8 times the national average, but Black mamas in the state are 3.8 times more likely to lose their babies in the first year post-birth than white women. This is the highest racial disparity in infant mortality in the United States.

The cause? The medical system is steeped in racism, failing Black mamas and their care needs. Medical professionals dismiss, and thereby, don’t adequately address the concerns of Black mamas. The data shows the standard of perinatal care is not equitable across racial lines.

Our goal is to reimagine Black maternal health in New Jersey and create a culture where joy and justice coexist. We acknowledge that birthing while Black is scary while simultaneously implementing evidence-based practices to reshape the current narrative that birthing while Black can also be beautiful and joyous. Black mothers and infants should not simply survive pregnancy and childbirth but they receive care that is respectful and dignified and provides them with all the tools and resources necessary to thrive in motherhood.