New moms can find resources, hear from experts and celebrate Black Maternal Health Week on April 12.
“EmpowerHer: Advocating for Black Maternal Joy,” is hosted by MelaMama Maternal Wellness, an Indy nonprofit that provides lactation services and post-partum support. The event is also supported by Indiana University Health and Navigate Maternity, a maternal health technology company working to reduce infant and maternal mortality.
Black women in Indiana are 73% more likely to die in childbirth than their white peers, according to the state’s maternal mortality review committee. A report on Marion County from nonprofit Just Community Inc. found these outcomes are often tied to systemic racism and health disparities.
There are some solutions, including the use of doulas — trained professionals who advocate for mothers in and outside of the delivery room.
At the event, participants can listen to panel discussions about these issues and meet with community vendors from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. April 12 at the Ruth Lilly Health Education Center, 2055 N. Senate Ave.
Register for free on Eventbrite.
Mirror Indy reporter Mary Claire Molloy covers health. Reach her at 317-721-7648 or email maryclaire.molloy@mirrorindy.org. Follow her on X @mcmolloy7.
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