In the United States, maternal mortality and morbidity disproportionately affects Black women.  Black women are 4 to 5 times more likely than white women to die during childbirth or due to childbirth related causes. In New York, that number jumps to 8 to 12 times the risk. 

The objective of this virtual town hall is to elevate the conversation on Black maternal health in the Harlem community and beyond to effectively address the myriad systemic healthcare inequities and elicit meaningful change. This conversation is especially critical at this time due to the ongoing COVID-19 crisis as we seek to mitigate gaps that will leave Black mothers exposed and can potentially exacerbate their health risk. 

Together, we will equip attendees with culturally competent and viable evidence-based prenatal education and birth alternatives to empower Black women in making informed decisions as well as tools to advocate for themselves for more optimal birthing experiences and outcomes.