In this month's newsletter, we celebrate the seventh annual Black Maternal Health Week (BMHW)
and share upcoming events and opportunities. Keep reading for more! 

Black Maternal Health Week (BMHW) is here! AAIMM is excited to join our community partners in proudly celebrating this year's theme:  "Our Bodies STILL Belong to Us: Reproductive Justice NOW!" for the seventh annual BMHW celebration from April 11-17.   Founded and led by the Black Mamas Matter Alliance (BMMA), BMHW is a week of awareness, activism, and community building.  The week kicks off on April 11, which is globally recognized as International Day for Maternal Health and Rights – an opportunity to join the worldwide community advocating for the elimination of maternal mortality.    This year’s AAIMM activities for Black Maternal Health Week are very diverse—ranging from birthing tours, documentary screenings, educational sessions with doulas, and much more. They all amplify the voices of Black mamas and birthing persons and center the values and history of the reproductive and birth justice movements.   Please visit our BMHW 2024 page for updated event listings and other information, and feel free to share the link with your village. Help us make BMHW one of the most talked about activities in L.A. County. Follow @blackinfantsandfamiliesla on Instagram for updates and use #BMHW24 and #BlackMaternalHealthWeek to help spread awareness.

 

Calendar of Events

 

Official Proclamation by Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell

 

The Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors declared birthing justice and equity once again passed a motion recognizing April 11-17 as Black Maternal Health Week and officially declared April 16 as the Day of the Black Infant.      "Black Maternal Health Week” (April 11-17), was established by the Black Mamas Matter Alliance in 2018 to bring local attention to the national maternal health care crisis in the Black community, and to promote education and advocacy around the experiences of Black mothers/birthing persons. This week in April is celebrated by centering Black mothers/birthing persons, families, and the systems of care working on their behalf toward joyous and healthy pregnancies and births. The theme for this year’s Black Maternal Health Week is “Our Bodies Still Belong to Us: Reproductive Justice Now!”    Recommendation as submitted by Supervisor Mitchell:  Proclaim the week of April 11 through 17, 2024, as “Black Maternal Health Week,” and April 16, 2024 as “The Day of the Black Infant” throughout the County; instruct the Director of Public Health to report back to the Board in writing within 60 days with plans to activate internal and community stakeholders to implement interventions and support current programs and services known to reduce racial disparities in perinatal outcomes, such as Community Action Teams, Doula Program expansion, Fatherhood Engagement, Guaranteed Income pilot, and promotion of other financial relief, the report back should also include plans to expand and outreach these resources to residents in need and how data collection can   improve outreach and engagement throughout the County; instruct all County Departments to stand in solidarity with the County African American Infant and Maternal Mortality (AAIMM) Initiative and its Community Partners in eliminating racism and bias in health care and related services and resources; encourage residents to learn about available services and resources, as well as ways to get involved by visiting AAIMM’s website at blackinfantsandfamiliesla.org or social media at @blackinfantsandfamiliesla and   www.facebook.com/blackinfantsandfamilies; and encourage residents to participate in upcoming events occurring in the Second District during Black   Maternal Health Week, including a community baby shower, doula meet-and-greets, and a Black Mamas Tour, residents can learn more at www.blackinfantsandfamiliesla.org.

 

 

Read more

Poor oral health may be linked to:

• Preeclampsia
• Preterm birth
• Low birth weight

Keep your mouth healthy while pregnant by:

• Visiting the dentist when pregnant and regularly therafter
• Brushing twice a day, everyday for two minutes
• Eating healthy foods
• Drinking water
• Quitting smoking

 

CLICK HERE FOR MORE TIPS

The African American Infant and Maternal Mortality Prevention Initiative (AAIMM) proudly supports the seventh annual celebration of Black Maternal Health Week (BMHW), April 11-17.

Founded and led by the Black Mamas Matter Alliance (BMMA), BMHW is a week of awareness, activism, and community building. The week kicks off on April 11, which is globally recognized as International Day for Maternal Health and Rights – an opportunity to join the worldwide community advocating for the elimination of maternal mortality. 

This year’s AAIMM activities for Black Maternal Health Week serve to amplify the voices of Black mamas and birthing persons and center the values and history of the reproductive and birth justice movements.

From Black Mamas Matter Alliance (BMMA):

We are thrilled to reveal the official​ theme for Black Maternal Health Week 2024 (#BMHW24):​ “Our Bodies STILL Belong to Us: Reproductive Justice NOW!” Widespread restrictions on abortion care access coupled with rising cases of criminalization due to pregnancy loss continue to widen the gaps of adverse maternal and birth outcomes in the U.S. Many of the states with the most restrictive abortion bans have the worst maternal and child health outcomes and the least supportive social welfare and family support programs, particularly for Black women and birthing people. The time is NOW to demand for comprehensive public and private insurance coverage for maternal, sexual, and reproductive health care; improve access to care across geographies and birth settings; issue guidance to health care providers, institutions, insurance companies, and related entities on providing equitable, high-quality, patient-centered care; and funding research and programs that center and utilize scholarship of Black women and birthing people, as fully described in BMMA’s comprehensive Policy Agenda.

BMMA continues to highlight and center culturally-congruent practices with a focus on Black Midwifery care and full-spectrum Black-led Doula care, as sound, evidence-based solutions. Most importantly, these are practices and solutions that incorporate the true needs, wants, and desires of Black women and birthing people.

AAIMM stands in solidarity with BMMA toward growing the village of support around Black women and birthing persons before, during, and after pregnancy and birth. During BMHW, we will be sharing events from organizations within our network — including those hosted by our AAIMM Community Action Teams — creating social media posts and digital content, and providing information, which will enable us to get closer to our goal of bringing about more equitable birthing outcomes for all women.

Please check this page during the week of April 11-17 for updated event listings and other information, and feel free to share the link with your Village. Follow @blackinfantsandfamiliesla on Instagram for updates and use #BMHW24, and #BlackMaternalHealthWeek to help spread awareness.

---

2024 BLACK MATERNAL HEALTH WEEK
CALENDAR OF EVENTS

 

 

 

 

 

APRIL 10

 

 

Event Name: Well Women’s Health Day

TIME: 10am-2pm

LOCATION: Tribe Midwifery, 4474 West Adams Blvd., Ste. 204, Los Angeles, CA 90016

DESCRIPTION: Receive a FREE well-woman gynecology exam. Lab tests and pap smears are $35 cash, or free with insurance. Dive into the world of women's sexual and reproductive health, exploring topics like menstrual wellness, perimenopause, menopause, and alternative childbirth choices.

CAT/ORG: Tribe Midwifery, Birthing & Babies, and Birth Story Midwifery

RSVP: Email [email protected] or call 909-480-1998 for more information or to make a required appointment. 

 

 

Event Name: Meet Your Village

TIME: 11AM-2PM

LOCATION: Curtis Tucker Center for Community Wellness, 123 W. Manchester Blvd., Inglewood, CA 90301

DESCRIPTION: The AAIMM Doula Advisory Committee (DAC) will host a community in-person gathering, offering local doula, doula collectives, and pregnant people the chance to connect and collaborate face-to-face. The Meet Your Village event will be held at Curtis Tucker Center for Community Wellness in Inglewood and aims to highlight Doula support and community resources in LA County, fostering connections, collaborations, and sharing with the community.

Meet Your Village will include a panel of perinatal providers highlighting each of their services and organization offerings, activities, vendor tables, raffles/giveaways, and more.

CAT/ORG:  AAIMM Doula Advisory Committee 

RSVP HERE

 

 

Event Name: Black Daddy Dialogue

TIME: 6:30PM

LOCATION: Martin Luther King, Jr. Center for Public Health, 11833 Wilmington Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90059

DESCRIPTION: Come kick off Black Maternal Health Week with AAIMM’s Fatherhood program. This is an in-person gathering for Black dads who want to support and uplift each other as we stand in solidarity with Black mamas and birthing persons.  

CAT/ORG:  AAIMM’s Fatherhood Program

RSVP HERE

 

APRIL 11

 

Event Name: California Black Birth Equity Summit - BMHW Virtual Gathering 

TIME: 12PM

LOCATION: Virtual via Zoom

DESCRIPTION: Gather virtually with Black birth justice advocates, birthworkers, and Black families for a restorative afternoon of yoga, breathwork, movement, storytelling, sound healing, and networking. Attendees will have the opportunity to select two 30-minute wellness breakout sessions. Comfortable clothing, paper and pens are recommended. We look forward to you joining us!

CAT/ORG:  SLASB AAIMM CAT and the AAIMM Steering Committee

RSVP HERE

 

 

Event Name: Doula and Midwife History Exhibit

TIME: 4:00PM - 9:00PM

LOCATION: Cedar Center, 44857 Cedar Ave., Lancaster, CA, 93534

DESCRIPTION: Come celebrate Black Maternal Health Week with the AV AAIMM CAT for an educational and inspiring evening. We will be honoring the history of the midwife and doula with multiple displays and films on the history of the midwife.

CAT/ORG:  AV AAIMM CAT

RSVP HERE

 

 

Event Name: “Birthing Justice” Screening and Discussion

TIME: 6:00pm - 8:00pm

LOCATION: Creative Visions Foundation, 18820 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, CA 90265

DESCRIPTION: Please join us as we honor Black Maternal Health Week with a screening of “Birthing Justice,” followed by a discussion with Executive Producer Denise Pines and Public Health Leader Adjoa Jones on Thursday, April 11, at 6pm.

America's medical inequities have turned giving birth into a battlefield for too many Black women and their babies. “Birthing Justice” tells the story of the crisis faced by Black mothers and their children and the solutions needed to transform the maternal care system.

Seating is limited so please RSVP now. Registration is required for this event. Due to parking restrictions, Uber/Lyft/rideshare is highly encouraged. Limited parking is available in the lot in front of Boardriders. Ample parking is available along PCH.

CAT/ORG: Women in the Rooms Production with SLASB AAIMM CAT

RSVP HERE

 

 

 

APRIL 12

Event Name: Black Mamas Birthing Tour

TIME: 10am

LOCATION: Birthing Centers across LA County

DESCRIPTION: Join us during Black Maternal Health Week for an intentionally curated tour of various birthing spaces in Los Angeles County. Our mission is to empower Black expecting parents by showcasing the various birthing spaces and resources available to them. From the Charles Drew University Black Maternal Health Center of Excellence to Kindred Space LA, Cedars Sinai, and LA County General Hospital you'll receive insights into each facility's offerings! Transportation and lunch will be provided. Space is limited; RSVP required. 

CAT/ORG: Black Women for Wellness and SLASB AAIMM CAT

RSVP HERE

 

 

Event Name: “Heal the Her’t: The Art of Storytelling” Film Screening" (TBD)

TIME: 4-6pm

LOCATION: Palmdale Cinemark, 1475 W Avenue P, Palmdale, CA 93551

DESCRIPTION: In HONO(u)R of the mamas, birthers, nurturers, babies, doulas, and community. In HONO(u)R of OUR Voices!

In Due Time Coalition presents “Heal the Her't: The Art of Storytelling.” The stories that will be shared in this Creative ART are Golden, like the poppies in the Antelope Valley. OUR stories are OUR herstory/history! And will NOT be contained. O(u)Ral storytelling is OUR tradition! As we embark on this jOURney, capturing these MOMents, WE would LOVE to invite you out and witness GREATness in the MAKING.

As WE continue to be solution-driven in aiding the efforts of reducing Black/African American infant and maternal mortality rates in Los Angeles County, we are committed to providing UNWAVERING support to birthing families, regardless of outcomes, and linking them to essential community resources to promote communal healing. And remember, stories that are told, are stories that are heard! 

General tickets are $11, VIP tickets are $35. 10% of all ticket sales will be donated to the AV AAIMM CAT. Tickets may be purchased in advance and at the door. For more information, please call 661-506-4314 or visit www.induetimeco.org.

CAT/ORG:  AV AAIMM CAT

 

APRIL 13 - POSTPONED! 

Event Name: 3rd Annual Community Baby Shower and Resource Fair

TIME: 10am-1pm

LOCATION: California State University, Dominguez Hills, 830 E. Victoria St.,  Carson, CA 90746 - Lot 3

DESCRIPTION: SLASB AAIMM CAT will be hosting its 3rd annual Community Baby Shower and Resource Fair. We will be providing Black mamas and their families with free baby essentials and resources. 

CAT/ORG: South Los Angeles/South Bay AAIMM CAT

For more information, email [email protected] or call 213-587-2252

RSVP HERE

 

 

Event Name: Black Maternal Health Week Brunch Celebration

TIME: 11am-2pm

LOCATION: 6600 Topanga Canyon, St 1250 Canoga Park, CA 91303

DESCRIPTION: Join us to honor Black Maternal Health Week with a celebration honoring our birthing journeys with good food and mimosas!

CAT/ORG: SFV/SC AAIMM CAT

RSVP HERE

 

 

Event Name: Black Girl Saturday School® Live in LA: Celebrating Sacred Black Storytelling

TIME: 1-3pm

LOCATION: Band of Vices, 5351 W. Adams Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90016

DESCRIPTION: Join i.D.R.E.A.M. for Racial Health Equity and Los Angeles County Black Infant Health as they welcome Black Girl Saturday School® to Los Angeles, CA during Black Maternal Health Week.

About our Speaker: Principal and Founder of Black Girl Saturday School®, Dr. LaShay Harvey, has over 20 years of experience as an educator specializing in human sexuality and the arts. She is a qualitative researcher and evaluator for higher education, sexuality and gender, maternal and fetal health and mortality, and art history.

Black Girl Saturday School® is the place where the study of Black girls’ and women’s lives is valued, appreciated, cultivated, immersive, healing, restorative, grounding, available, continual, fun, and more.
CAT/ORG: i.D.R.E.A.M. for Racial Health Equity a project of Community Partners®

 

RSVP HERE

 

 

Event Name: Black Film Showcase

TIME: 1:30-4pm

LOCATION: USC Fisher Museum of Art, 823 W Exposition Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90089

DESCRIPTION: Join us for an evening of reflection, empowerment, and action as we shine a light on an urgent issue within our community: Black maternal mortality. In collaboration with CinnaMoms Crenshaw, we present a curated selection of Black short films that delve into the complexities of Black maternal health and the alarming disparities that persist. 

Through powerful narratives and compelling storytelling, these films amplify the voices of Black mothers and highlight the systemic challenges they face before, during, and after childbirth. From navigating biased healthcare systems to confronting societal stigma, these stories illuminate the harsh realities while also celebrating resilience and strength.

In addition to the film screening, immerse yourself in a live art installation that captures the essence of the Black maternal experience. Witness artists bring forth emotions and truths through their creative expressions, offering a visceral interpretation of the issues at hand.

But the evening doesn't end there. Engage with community resources, connect with local organizations, and explore a curated selection of vendors offering goods and services that support maternal health and wellness within the Black community.

This event is not just about raising awareness; it's about fostering dialogue, building solidarity, and mobilizing for change. Together, let's confront the silence surrounding Black maternal mortality and work towards a future where every mother receives the care and support she deserves.

Join us for an evening of education, inspiration, and activism. Together, we can break the silence and empower change.

Admission is free, but donations to support maternal health initiatives are welcome. RSVP now to secure your spot and participate in this important conversation.

CAT/ORG: Black Women for Wellness, CinnaMoms, and SLASB AAIMM CAT

RSVP HERE

 

 

 

Event Name: How to Journal Your Lived Experiences Along Your Birthing Journey

TIME: 3-5pm

LOCATION: Octavia’s Bookshelf, 1365 N Hill Ave., Pasadena, CA 91104

DESCRIPTION: Join us for an afternoon of fellowship and fun while designing your own personal journal and pen (DDIY: Design and Do it Yourself). There will also be space to begin writing and charting in your journal at this event. This is essentially a journal making and writing workshop. There will be light refreshments. Journals, pens, and SGV AAIMM CAT mugs will be distributed while supplies last. 

CAT/ORG: SGV AAIMM CAT

RSVP HERE

 

APRIL 14

TBD

 

 

APRIL 15

 

Event Name: Taking Care Of You: A Prenatal Yoga Experience For Black Moms

 

DATE: Monday, April 15, 2024

TIME: 3pm

 

 

LOCATION: Crenshaw Yoga & Dance, 5426 Crenshaw Blvd., Los Angeles 90043

 

 

DESCRIPTION: Free prenatal yoga class for Black moms in Los Angeles! With the health disparities facing Black birthing moms in America, this class creates a safe space for moms to focus on their maternal health as well as welcome talking points about current fears and challenges in the health care system. This class includes pranyama (breathwork), guided meditation, vocalization, pelvic floor engagement, and Yoga Nidra. 

 

 

CAT/ORG: Kindred Space LA, Tranquil Care Inc., Queen Hakim

RSVP HERE

 

 

Event Name: Virtual Fireside with Dr. Harvey

TIME: 6:00pm-7:30pm

LOCATION: Virtual Event

DESCRIPTION: Principal and Founder of Black Girl Saturday School®, Dr. LaShay Harvey, has over 20 years of experience as an educator specializing in human sexuality and the arts. She is a qualitative researcher and evaluator for higher education, sexuality and gender, maternal/fetal health and mortality, and art history. During our fireside chat, Dr. Harvey will share the brilliance of her Black Woman Wisdom with our allies and community members who want to know more about Black Girl Saturday School®.

CAT/ORG: i.D.R.E.A.M.

RSVP HERE

 

 

APRIL 16

Event Name: Enlighten & Empower

TIME: 11am-1pm

LOCATION: Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science, 1731E 120th St., Los Angeles, CA 90059

DESCRIPTION: The Black Maternal Health Center of Excellence (BMHCE) is hosting the unveiling of the Black Maternal Health Library Collection in Cobb Lobby of Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science. Join us for presentations from our medical students and special guest speakers.

CAT/ORG: BMHCE

RSVP HERE

 

Event Name: Family Planning Virtual Series: It Takes a Village

TIME: 6-7:30pm

LOCATION: Virtual Event

DESCRIPTION: Join us as we discuss how to create a healthy pregnancy and highlight how someone can receive support during and after pregnancy.

CAT/ORG: Black Health Initiative, Planned Parenthood

RSVP HERE

 

 

Event Name: Black Mamas Glowing® Pregnancy Peer Support Group

TIME: 6-7:30pm

LOCATION: Virtual Event

DESCRIPTION: Black Mamas Glowing® is a virtual peer support group experience formed to reduce isolation and build community for Black birthing families and the expanded Black perinatal workforce including birth workers. The focus is on maternal mental health with Black pregnant women and birthing people in greater Los Angeles and surrounding counties. This 4-part series meets every Tuesday.

Registration closes 24 hours before the cohort begins. 

CAT/ORG: i.D.R.E.A.M.

 

APRIL 17

Event Name: Doula Who? Doula How? Doula What? Body Autonomy and Your Rights During Birth

TIME: 11am

LOCATION: Virtual event via the @lapubliclibrary YouTube livestream

Black Maternal Health Week is a week away and we are so excited to be collaborating with the Los Angeles Public Library for the second year in a row for a livestream panel, "Doula Who? Doula How? Doula What? Body Autonomy and Your Rights During Birth" on Wednesday, April 17 at 11am PT via the @lapubliclibrary YouTube livestream. 

Although registration is NOT required, you can sign up to receive a Google calendar invite for the event at bit.ly/fldbmhw24. 

On the day of the event, head over to www.youtube.com/@lapubliclibrary to tune into this informative, timely, and necessary webinar on informed consent, body autonomy, and more! #bmhw24

CAT/ORG: Frontline Doulas, The Los Angeles Public Library

RSVP HERE

 

 

Event Name: Use of Imagery in Wellness Event

TIME: 12-2pm

LOCATION: Peer Resource Center (Located at the MRT Behavioral Health Center), 12021 Wilmington Ave., Bldg. 18, Los Angeles, CA 90059

DESCRIPTION: The Outreach and Engagement Team and Maternal Mental Health of Service Area 6 will host Use of Imagery in Wellness Event which is open to all birthing persons and their families. It will include a one-hour workshop explaining the use of imagery in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) in an effort to make a connection to our CBT maternal mental health group. Participants will be led through a guided imagery exercise. Lunch will be provided to all in attendance as well as a free bag of diapers. 

CAT/ORG: South Los Angeles/South Bay AAIMM CAT

Contact [email protected] or [email protected] for more information.

 “Being a doula means serving my community by uplifting those who bring forth life, love and hope in our everyday lives.” 

 

– Luz Ticas, AAIMM CFCI Doula

 

 

 

Read more

rsvp

 

Save the date

 

Saturday April 27th 2024

1:00PM TILL 4:00PM

 

Ervin "Magic" Johnson Recreation Area Community Engagement Room

905 E. El Segundo Bivd. Los Angeles, CA 90059

 

Formal Dress | Food & Fun-photo booth | Music (DJ)-dancing

RSVP to Gary Barker at [email protected] or 323 518-8423 spots are limited

rsvp

Happy Black History Month from the African American Infant and Maternal Mortality Prevention Initiative (AAIMM)!

Black History Month allows us to reflect on our collective history and recognize achievements and contributions made by our ancestors. This month is also an opportunity to celebrate the outstanding work that continues today and will be built upon in the future. Our AAIMM programs are extensions of long-held traditions that we celebrate as part of Black history, as shared experiences within the African diaspora.

---

THE IMPORTANCE OF BLACK BIRTH WORKERS

 

Doulas (also known as birth workers) have long been recognized as experienced and compassionate birthing companions by the families they serve, but were dismissed by the western medical system. Only in the past couple of decades have doulas been recognized anew as professionals, rooted in community. In their role, doulas provide emotional support, guidance, and comfort to families throughout the pregnancy experience, regardless of outcomes. Along with assisting during the birthing process, doulas contribute to parents’ holistic well-being by imparting valuable and culturally competent knowledge on prenatal care, nutrition, interventions, and coping strategies. Doulas provide a safe space during one of the most intimate and vulnerable moments in a birthing person’s life, where they can share their fears, hopes and joy. 

As advocates for informed decision making, doulas are an added support and protection for Black pregnant persons within the birthing care team for expectant families. The presence of birth workers fosters a sense of empowerment and strengthens the communal fabric, as the wisdom passed down between generations forms a vital part of cultural continuity. Through their commitment to enhancing maternal health and the sacred journey of childbirth, Black doulas exemplify the amalgamation of tradition, compassion, and resilience, enriching the tapestry of cultural practices surrounding childbirth. 

As we continue to champion equitable birthing outcomes in the United States, doulas remain at the forefront of efforts to eliminate racial disparities in maternal health and promote reproductive justice. Thanks to the advocacy of dedicated birth workers, including those within the AAIMM Doula Program, doula services were added as a covered Medi-Cal benefit in 2023 by the California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS). 

 

Learn more about AAIMM’s Doula Program HERE. 

 

THE IMPORTANCE OF FATHERS

 

Fathers who are actively engaged during the pregnancy journey, offering steadfast emotional nourishment, support and protection, foster positive birth outcomes. Historically, the involvement of Black fathers transcended the birthing moment, encompassing the entire gestational period, during which fathers participated in rituals, ceremonies, and discussions focused on the well-being of the mother and the unborn child. This comprehensive approach to fatherhood cultivated a sense of unity and communal responsibility. 

In the U.S., Black fathers have maintained this responsibility, being anchors of support to their children and families often in the face of discrimination and widespread negative stereotypes. AAIMM recognizes, embraces, and celebrates Black fathers as catalysts for building strong communities and healthy families. AAIMM has created space through our Fatherhood Program for Black dads to build relationships in brotherhood while accessing the tools they need to prepare for their integral role in the family.  

 

Learn more about AAIMM’s Fatherhood Program HERE. 

 

THE IMPORTANCE OF COMMUNITY

 

In many African societies, community is not merely a physical space but a dynamic and interconnected network where individuals collaborate, celebrate, and navigate life's challenges together. This communal ethos is deeply rooted in the principle of Ubuntu (meaning “humanity” in Bantu), emphasizing the interdependence of individuals within the community, epitomized by the saying, "I am because we are."

Black American culture embraced Ubuntu in the way that communities were built and thrived through collective resolve. One example was historic Black Wall Street in the early 20th century in Tulsa, Oklahoma. This section of North Tulsa—at the time an affluent oil town—comprised a prosperous Black community. Mrs. Viola "Mother" Fletcher, author of Don't Let Them Bury My Story: The Oldest Living Survivor of the Tulsa Race Massacre in Her Own Words, who recently visited Los Angeles, reflected on the community and the destruction it endured due to racism. 

Despite centuries of adversity, the beauty of our Black history is our ability to continually showcase our resilience, solidarity, and strength as a people when we present a unified front. The strength of our community shows through grassroots organizing, collective activism and advocacy, and the support networks we have built to champion equality.  

AAIMM’s Community Action Teams share this legacy throughout Los Angeles County, bathing our communities with the joy of knowing that we are not alone in this journey. We are in this together. 

 

 

Get involved with AAIMM’s Community Action Teams HERE. 

 

Read more

In celebration of Women’s History Month, the California Legislative Women’s Caucus held an annual ceremony in the State Capitol to recognize seven California ‘HERstory Makers’. In recognition of her groundbreaking achievements, the Caucus chose our executive director, Janette Robinson-Flint, as one of the 2024 California Women Making HERstory. The California Legislature paid tribute to Janette on Monday, March 11th in Sacramento, presented by State Senator Nancy Skinner.

 

Read more

Since 2018, the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (DPH), in partnership with First 5 LA and community-based organizations, has led a broad African American Infant & Maternal Mortality Prevention Initiative (AAIMM) to address the disparities in maternal and infant health outcomes caused by the societal and physiological effects of racism and discrimination. The AAIMM Doula Program launched in 2019 to match Black pregnant individuals with skilled Black birth doulas who provide support, advocacy, and education throughout the perinatal period. In addition to direct service provision, the Program also organizes workforce development opportunities for birthworkers of color and fosters demand for doula services via public awareness, clinician and community engagement, and statewide policy work.

Read more

[AAIMM Contribution: Activating Our Village in Los Angeles County: Birth Equity & Black Families
Authors: Sonya Young Aadam, Dr. Deborah Allen, Dr. Brandi Desjolais, Dr. Melissa Franklin, Adjoa Jones, Helen O’Connor, Kaci Patterson, Dr. Sylvia Swilley]

 

Collective Impact Fuels Change in Maternal Health
More than 150 maternal health professionals join forces to create maternal health playbook

[CHAPEL HILL, NC] - Esteemed maternal health professionals in partnership with

the de Beaumont Foundation and the Maternal Health Learning & Innovation Center

(MHLIC) today announce the release of the highly anticipated book, The Practical

Playbook III: Working Together to Improve Maternal Health. This comprehensive and

groundbreaking work serves as a crucial resource for professionals across diverse

fields, providing practical and actionable guidance. A key focus of the book is to

encourage collaboration across sectors to address the multifaceted challenges in

maternal health.

In The Practical Playbook III, writers delve into the collaborative efforts essential for

improving maternal health outcomes. “The book is unique in that it brings together

the expertise of practitioners and people with lived experience who have known

about and been invested in reversing the maternal health crisis since before it gained

national attention,” said co-editor Lindsey Yates, PhD, MPH, an assistant professor

in the UNC Department of Maternal and Child Health.

The book offers a meticulous exploration of effective strategies, evidence-based

practices, and innovative approaches to address the complexities surrounding

maternal health.

Read more

The California Abundant Birth Project (CA ABP) is now in Alameda, Contra Costa, Los Angeles, and Riverside Counties!!

CA ABP is a guaranteed income program that provides cash during pregnancy. It was developed by Expecting Justice and the community to make birthing healthier and safer for the people facing the greatest risk during their pregnancy journey.

CA ABP provides cash with no strings attached as a strategy to prevent stress during pregnancy. Research shows this is likely to prevent babies from being born too early or too small and can also protect the health of the mother (birthing parent). By providing unconditional cash, mamas have resources to support themselves and their families, and babies have the chance at a healthy start.

CLICK HERE TO APPLY

Read more

The Los Angeles County African American Infant and Maternal Mortality Prevention Initiative (AAIMM) today received the 2023 Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF) Culture of Health Prize. The prize celebrates communities across the country where people and organizations are collaborating to build positive solutions to barriers that have created unequal opportunities for health and well being. 

 

Read more

Read more

“A doula is a confidant, a safe space holder, a nurturer to the mother/birthing person, and an empathic educator.”

— Merrisa A. Stern, AAIMM Doula Mentee 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Read more

“(A) doula will provide non-judgmental prenatal and postpartum support that is in alignment with your family's needs.” 

— Michelle Henderson, AAIMM Backup Doula 

Read more

Read more

“I truly believe that every parent who wants to chest/breastfeed deserves the opportunity to have that chance.”

Read more

“I'm very passionate about nutrition and its effect on chronic health and one of the best starts in life is breast milk.” 

Read more

“I am passionate about educating, empowering, and cheering on breastfeeding as the norm for our Black breast/chestfeeding families.”

Read more

“It is amazing to see how CinnaMoms has led to the promotion of so many staff members at WIC. Seeing staff advance in their lactation careers has been quite rewarding.” 

 

 

Read more