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Adopt and present a resolution recognizing April 11-17, 2025 as Black Maternal Health Week in Solano County (Supervisor Williams)
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Published Notice Required? Yes ____ No _X _
Public Hearing Required? Yes ____ No _X _
DEPARTMENTAL RECOMMENDATION:
Supervisor Williams recommends that the Board of Supervisors adopt a resolution recognizing April 11-17, 2025 as Black Maternal Health Week in Solano County.
SUMMARY/ DISCUSSION:
Black Maternal Health Week (BMHW) is an annual national campaign aimed at raising awareness about the disparities in maternal health outcomes among Black women in the United States. It is led by the Black Mamas Matter Alliance (BMMA), a national organization dedicated to improving Black maternal health.
Black Maternal Health Week is part of National Minority Health Month. The maternal mortality rate for Black women in the U.S. is more than three times higher than for white women. Social, cultural, and systemic factors, such as racism, poverty, and lack of access to quality healthcare, all contribute to these disparities.
The Purpose and Goals of BMHW are to (1) highlight the racial disparities in maternal health outcomes, (2) advocate for policies and programs that support Black mothers, (3) educate the public about the factors that contribute to poor Black maternal health, and (4) empower Black communities to take action to improve their health.
Black Maternal Health Week sets a time for a variety of events and activities such as educational workshops and webinars, community health fairs and screenings, advocacy events and rallies, media campaigns and social media activations, as well as conferences and research presentations.
To get and be involved, consider (1) attending events and activities in your community, (2) donating to BMMA or other organizations supporting Black maternal health programs/initiatives, (3) advocate for policies that improve Black maternal health, (4) share information and resources on social media, and (5) support organizations working on maternal health issues.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
The costs associated with preparing the agenda item are nominal and absorbed by the Board’s FY2024/25 Working Budget. The costs associated with preparation and purchase of the resolution materials are included in the Board’s FY2024/25 Working Budget.
ALTERNATIVES:
The Board could choose not to adopt this resolution but that would not be recommended as this is a good opportunity to highlight the importance of the purpose and goals of this movement especially as given that the County is specifically charged by the State with providing services to those most at risk.
OTHER AGENCY INVOLVEMENT:
There is no other agency involvement.
CAO RECOMMENDATION:
APPROVE DEPARTMENTAL RECOMMENDATION