By: Nicki Reid, Bilingual BA
The Issue and Importance of Black Maternal Health Week / Month
In Canada, we lack race based data including information pertaining to maternal health and mortality for Black women. This is deeply problematic because according to the alarming data from the United States of America “[t]he Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that 50,000 women in the United States (U.S.) suffer from pregnancy complications annually, but that Black women are at least three times more likely to die due to a pregnancy-related cause when compared to White women”. The limited data that is available in Canada paints a similar picture as evidenced by a 2016 research study as well as a 2023 study that shows due to the anti-Black racism present in the healthcare system, Black women felt dismissed, objectified, dehumanized, [and] trauma[tized] (amongst other things) which not only resulted in strained therapeutic relationships, but also the mistrust of medical professionals. Collecting pertinent data will allow for inform[ed] policy and interventions to advance maternal health equity.
Solutions and Moving Forward
There are various organizations such as Mino Care, public health units, governmental departments, community advocates, and more who are working tirelessly to bridge the gap to improve the experiences of Black women navigating the health care system. For instance, according to the Legislative Assembly Ontario, Bill 209: The Black Maternal Health and Reproductive Justice Month Act has been ordered for a second reading. In addition, the City of Ottawa has proclaimed April to be recognized as the Maternal Health and Reproductive Justice Month. Similarly, the City of Toronto has recognized April 11th - 17th as Black Maternal Health Week. Getting this recognition on a legislative / policy level is important because it is a step in the right direction to not only help raise awareness around the various issues that impact Black maternal health, but also to work towards improving the current conditions.
When it comes to acquiring data pertaining to the experiences of Black people, the University of Ottawa houses Canada’s first academic research centre entirely dedicated to the study of the biological, social, and cultural determinants of health of Black communities in Canada. Furthermore, on June 18, 2024, the University of Ottawa’s Dr. Josephine B. Etowa’s has launched the Black Women’s Health Initiative (BWHI) whose goal is to establish the first-ever comprehensive 10-year research agenda to address the unique health challenges faced by [African, Canadian, and Black] women in Canada.
Black Maternal Health and You
As a Black mother myself who hasn’t had the greatest experience navigating this health care system (to put it nicely) I know how scary and overwhelming it can all be. What has helped me is getting educated and staying informed; knowing my rights, and what services and resources are available to me. You may find it helpful to read about the Association of Ontario Midwives ongoing effort for Racial Justice and Human Rights. Also, making the appropriate connections and having the right team of health care providers and advocates around you is invaluable. One way to do so is to get in touch with an organization such as Mino Care to support you along your journey. Another way is to attend the events that the Black Maternal Health Collective Canada will be hosting for Black Maternal Health Week. To view the upcoming events and learn more, visit here.
On Saturday, April 12, 2025, Ancestral Hands Midwives will be holding a Community Baby Shower for Black pregnant and postpartum people. You can look forward to vendors, prizes, community building, panel discussions, and more. Get your free ticket here.
At times, the reality of the situation can feel heavy, so in addition to taking practical steps, I invite you to take some time to give back to yourself. Remember that our mental and emotional health is equally as important as our physical and reproductive health.
You can start by taking a deep breath in and out, slowly. Place one hand over your heart and the other hand over your belly and just take a moment to connect with your breath. Pay attention to the rise and fall of your belly as you continue to inhale and exhale. Just be here for a moment or as long as you feel is necessary. Maybe while you’re here you tell yourself the following as you breathe in and out between each affirmation:
I am healthy.
I am safe.
I am divinely guided.
I am protected.
I am blessed.
Finally, take comfort in knowing that there are many who are on the front lines advocating for change, and in the words of Sam Cooke, “change gon come, oh yes it will” because we deserve better and we WILL receive better.
Take deep care and stay well, Mama.
Nicki Reid, Bilingual BA
Certified Transformational Health and Life Coach | Certified Yoga and Meditation Teacher | Certified Emotional Emancipation Facilitator | Certified Reiki Practitioner | Founder, Wholesome Mind Health Coaching