Fathers fighting Black Maternal Mortality

Updated: Nov 2

Tackling Black Maternal Mortality Together

It’s no secret that Black women's maternal mortality rates are higher than those of white women, with Black women being three to four times more likely to die from pregnancy-related complications. Factors like systemic racism, access to healthcare, implicit bias in medical settings, and social determinants of health contribute to this disparity. However, there’s an often untold part of this story: the involvement of fathers and partners in maternal health.

Fathers can play a crucial role in supporting Black women by advocating for their access to quality healthcare, assisting in navigating the frequently disjointed healthcare system, and challenging any biases that may occur. Unfortunately, conversations about maternal health are often isolated, and fathers might feel it’s not their role or lack the skills and knowledge to manage these emotionally charged areas.

In today’s episode, we’ll be exploring how fathers can be key advocates for maternal health, working alongside healthcare providers and communities to reduce these disparities. Dr. Valerie Newsome Garcia. Prior to becoming Director of Programs and Grants for 4Kira4Moms, a national non-profit working for improved maternal outcomes, she worked with the National Healthy Start Association, held faculty positions at NYU School of Medicine, Morehouse School of Medicine, and Brooklyn College, and was a Fellow at Harvard University’s T.H. Chan School of Public Health. Dr. Newsome Garcia’s research has focused on the social, environmental, and structural determinants of health, especially in underserved communities.

To learn more about Dr. Newsome Garcia, click here.

More Works by Dr. Newsome Garcia:

Season 2 Episode 20

Running Time: 30 minutes