BATON ROUGE, La. - In commemoration of Black Maternal Health Week, observed annually from April 11-17, the Mu Sigma chapter of the Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority convened a poignant event at the Louisiana State Capitol on Sunday, April 14.
Dubbed "Honor Her Life," the gathering aimed to shine a spotlight on the critical issue of Black maternal health while paying tribute to the women who tragically lost their lives during childbirth or in the aftermath of delivery complications.
The disparity in maternal mortality rates between Black and white women is stark, with Black women in Louisiana facing a staggering four times higher risk of pregnancy-related death compared to their white counterparts.
Recognizing the urgency of addressing this disparity, the event sought to raise awareness and foster community engagement in efforts to prevent such tragedies and enhance maternal healthcare services.
Distinguished guests graced the occasion, including Mayor-President Sharon Weston Broome and Chief Judge John Michael Guidry of the 1st Circuit Court of Appeal. Attendees also had the opportunity to hear heartfelt testimonials from individuals directly impacted by maternal health challenges.
Central to the event was the Bubble Release Memorial, a solemn tribute honoring the lives lost, alongside educational programs focused on Black maternal health and a resource fair featuring local vendors.
With a shared commitment to combating maternal mortality disparities, local organizations underscored the importance of collective action in driving meaningful change and ensuring equitable access to quality maternal healthcare for all.