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Why the Black Birth Collection is Essential for Milwaukee’s Maternal Health Crisis

Writer's picture: Giovanni LeachGiovanni Leach

Updated: Dec 15, 2024



Milwaukee’s maternal health statistics paint a stark and troubling picture, underscoring the urgent need for initiatives like the Black Birth Collection. With alarmingly high rates of infant mortality, maternal mortality, and premature births in the city—disparities that disproportionately affect Black and Brown families—Milwaukee is in the grip of a public health crisis that demands immediate attention and action.


Milwaukee’s Maternal Health Disparities: The Data Speaks

1. Infant Mortality Rates:

Milwaukee has one of the highest infant mortality rates in the United States. As of recent studies, Black infants in Milwaukee are nearly three times more likely to die before their first birthday compared to white infants. Factors like unequal access to healthcare, systemic racism, and limited prenatal resources exacerbate this disparity.


2. Maternal Mortality:

Nationally, Black women are three to four times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than white women. In Wisconsin, this disparity is mirrored, with Black mothers experiencing mortality rates significantly higher than their white counterparts, despite Milwaukee being home to some of the state’s largest healthcare systems.


3. Premature & Low Birth Weight:

Milwaukee sees disproportionately high rates of premature births and low birth weights among Black and Brown infants. Black women in Milwaukee are nearly 50% more likely to have preterm births, which can lead to long-term health complications for their babies. This disparity highlights systemic healthcare gaps and the need for targeted education and intervention.


How the Black Birth Collection Makes an Impact

The Black Birth Collection is more than just an event—it’s a movement to change the narrative around Black and Brown maternal health in Milwaukee. By showcasing Black birth workers, advocates, and educators, the event provides culturally relevant resources and creates a community of support for families navigating pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum care.


Here’s how this initiative directly benefits Milwaukee:

Promotes Awareness and Education: The Black Birth Collection addresses the root causes of health disparities by educating families on the importance of prenatal care, breastfeeding, and advocacy during childbirth.

Access to Resources: Attendees gain access to a network of Black and Brown doulas, lactation consultants, and other birth workers who understand their unique needs and challenges.

Empowering Families: This event is designed to empower families with the tools and knowledge to advocate for themselves within the healthcare system, ensuring they receive equitable and respectful care.


Community Healing and Progress

The Black Birth Collection is not just a response to the statistics—it’s a step toward healing. This event aims to unite families, healthcare providers, and advocates to tackle these disparities collectively. It creates a space to celebrate the strength and resilience of Black and Brown families while addressing the systemic issues that put them at risk.


By fostering education, community, and support, we can reduce maternal and infant mortality rates, improve birth outcomes, and ensure that all families in Milwaukee—regardless of race—have the opportunity to thrive.


Join us in our mission to rewrite the story of maternal health in Milwaukee. Together, we can make a lasting difference.


Sources:

1. Wisconsin Department of Health Services - Infant Mortality Data

2. City of Milwaukee - Maternal and Child Health Programs

3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) - Maternal Mortality Reports

4. Wisconsin Public Health Research Network - Preterm Birth Rates

5. March of Dimes - Disparities in Birth Outcomes

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