Ingram Celebrates Black Maternal Health Week

Today, state Senator Catherine D. Ingram (D- Cincinnati) recognized the significance of Black Maternal Health Week, highlighting the need for continued investment in Ohio’s mothers and babies. Black Maternal Health Week occurs during the week of April 11 to April 17.

“As elected officials, it is incumbent upon us to remain steadfast to our commitment of addressing the issue of disparate birth outcomes from our Black mothers in Ohio,” said Ingram.

Started by the Black Mamas Matter Alliance in 2019, Black Maternal Health Week was created with the intention of highlighting the needs, perspectives, and experiences of Black mothers, their babies, and their families. Across the nation, communities come together during this week to shed light on the triumphs and challenges that have impacted Black maternal and infant health. It is worth noting that the state of Ohio has taken steps in the right direction to address the stark disparities of health outcomes regarding maternal and infant health, however, there is much more work to be done. 

Although extremely important, health is not simply a routine visit to the doctor. A person’s health can also be attributed to the built environment in which they live, their access to good jobs, education attainment, transportation, and comprehensive health care services.

“It is imperative that we continue to invest in these areas to create a more equitable Ohio. All people deserve access to affordable, quality, and readily available health care services.” 

House Bill 190 passed out of the Ohio House on December 6, 2023 and is still awaiting its first hearing in the Ohio Senate. H.B. 190 would designate the week of April 11 to April 17 as "Black Maternal Health Week."