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GREENWOOD Dist. — Tulsa Birth Equity Initiative (TBEI), a local nonprofit focused on reducing health disparities among pregnant women, is hosting a series of local events in conjunction with Black Maternal Health Week, April 11-17, 2024.
“Participating and supporting Black Maternal Health Week is an opportunity to raise awareness for the need to provide equitable access to healthcare and safeguard the well-being of black mothers and their children,” said Omare Jimmerson, TBEI Executive Director. “The weeklong celebration will highlight our collective work to amplify the voices of black mothers, advocate for change and dismantle the systemic barriers that threaten their lives and futures.”
Black women are disproportionately affected by maternal mortality. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Black women are 3-4 times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than white women. They also experience higher rates of severe maternal morbidity. Additionally, Black women are less likely to receive adequate prenatal care compared to White women. This discrepancy can lead to undiagnosed or poorly managed health conditions during pregnancy.
“Studies have shown that black women are more likely to report feeling dismissed, ignored or mistreated by healthcare providers during pregnancy and childbirth, which can impact their overall health-seeking behaviors and outcomes,” Jimmerson said.
“TBEI is committed to implementing initiatives that prioritize the health and well-being of black mothers and their families. Our doula program provides a personal birth advocate to ensure expecting parents are seen, heard and supported from early pregnancy through childbirth,” Jimmerson added.
TBEI events are free and open to the public, and more information is available at tulsabei.org/events.
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Celebrating Black Motherhood: Prioritizing Health Equity Seminar
The seminar will address the concerning disparities faced by Black women in childbirth and maternal health, and will include an insightful exploration into the complexities of black maternal health and equity in maternal care.
Thur., Apr. 11, 6-8 p.m.
Herman and Kate Kaiser YMCA, 5400 S Olympia Ave, Tulsa, OK 74107
A celebration to honor and support black mothers, the event will include prizes, food and a KidZone.
Sat., Apr. 13, 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Lacy Park, 2134 N. Madison Place, Tulsa, OK 74106
What to Know About Medicaid Webinar
This informative session will unravel the complexities of Medicaid insurance, and participants will have the opportunity to learn and ask questions in a supportive environment.
Mon., Apr. 15, 5 – 6 p.m.
Via Zoom
Black women are invited to join a community baby shower, complete with food and games to celebrate expectant mothers. A KidZone is available to assist with childcare.
Tuesday, April 16, 6 – 8 p.m.
Lacy Park, 2134 N. Madison Place, Tulsa, OK 74106
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