In Fresno, California, Black women are facing a significant health disparity when it comes to pregnancy-related causes. Despite making up only 5% of the female population in the city, they are three times more likely to die than white women, a statistic that is attributed to systemic racism and bias that has existed for generations.
To address this issue, the Fresno community has come together during Black Maternal Health Week to raise awareness and take action. The Black Wellness and Prosperity Center organized a health fair and jubilee in Downtown Fresno, where community members came together to celebrate the work being done to address the alarming statistic.
Attendees at the event were able to enjoy free food, dancing, yoga, giveaways, and access to valuable health resources. This event served as a platform for education, advocacy, and empowerment within the Black community in Fresno. A celebratory walk was held to honor the efforts put forth to raise awareness about the issue and to provide support to those who have been impacted.
Black Maternal Health Week will continue until April 17, allowing for continued discussions and initiatives to address this critical issue. The goal of this week is to raise awareness about the disparities faced by Black women when it comes to maternal health and encourage communities across the country to take action towards addressing these issues.
