By Dr. Telisa Franklin

In recent years, the conversation surrounding maternal health has gained significant traction, particularly in highlighting the disparities faced by Black women. Black Maternal Health Week, observed annually in April, serves as a crucial platform to raise awareness, advocate for change, and promote resources that support Black mothers. In Memphis, Tennessee, SisterReach stands out as a leading organization dedicated to advancing the rights and health of Black women and mothers. Under the visionary leadership of CEO and President Cherisse Scott, SisterReach is making strides in ensuring that Black women feel valued, heard, and empowered.

Black women in the United States are disproportionately affected by maternal health issues. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Black women are three to four times more likely to experience pregnancy-related deaths compared to their white counterparts. Factors contributing to this alarming statistic include systemic racism, lack of access to quality healthcare, implicit bias among healthcare providers, and socioeconomic challenges. This systemic neglect not only impacts the health of mothers but also affects the well-being of their children and families.

Black Maternal Health Week, founded by the Black Mamas Matter Alliance, aims to raise awareness about these disparities and promote actionable solutions. The week serves as an opportunity for organizations, activists, and communities to come together, share resources, and advocate for policy changes that prioritize the health and well-being of Black mothers. Key objectives include increasing access to healthcare services, addressing implicit bias in medical settings, and fostering supportive environments for Black women throughout their pregnancy and postpartum journeys.

SisterReach, founded in 2011, has emerged as a beacon of hope and advocacy for Black women in Memphis. The organization’s mission is to empower women of color to make informed decisions about their reproductive health and to advocate for social justice and equity in healthcare. SisterReach addresses a wide array of issues affecting Black women, including access to reproductive health services, maternal health disparities, and the impact of systemic racism on healthcare outcomes.

Cherisse Scott, the CEO and President of SisterReach, is a dynamic leader whose passion for advocacy is palpable. With a background in public health and social work, Scott has dedicated her career to elevating the voices of Black women. She recognizes the importance of creating spaces where women can share their experiences and seek support without fear of judgment or discrimination. Under her leadership, SisterReach has implemented programs that educate women about their reproductive rights, provide access to healthcare resources, and promote community engagement.

Cherisse Scott embodies the essence of leadership in maternal health advocacy. Her approach is rooted in empathy, understanding, and a commitment to uplifting marginalized voices. By fostering partnerships with local healthcare providers, community organizations, and policymakers, Scott has created a collaborative network that amplifies the needs and concerns of Black mothers.

One of SisterReach's hallmark initiatives is the “Momma’s Voices” program, which provides a platform for Black mothers to share their stories and experiences related to pregnancy and childbirth. This initiative not only empowers women but also educates healthcare providers about the unique challenges faced by Black mothers. By centering the narratives of those directly impacted, SisterReach is paving the way for more equitable maternal healthcare practices.

SisterReach recognizes that the fight for Black maternal health goes beyond individual experiences; it requires addressing the systemic racism embedded in healthcare systems. Cherisse Scott advocates for policy changes that hold healthcare institutions accountable for their role in perpetuating disparities. By engaging in dialogues with lawmakers and health officials, SisterReach is working to create policies that prioritize the health of Black women and ensure that their voices are included in decision-making processes.

Moreover, SisterReach provides training and resources for healthcare providers to address implicit bias. This training is crucial in fostering a more inclusive healthcare environment where Black women feel respected and valued. By empowering healthcare professionals with knowledge and tools to recognize their biases, SisterReach is contributing to a cultural shift within the healthcare system.

SisterReach’s impact extends beyond advocacy; the organization actively engages with the community to provide education and resources. Through workshops, health fairs, and community events, SisterReach raises awareness about maternal health issues and provides women with the tools they need to advocate for their own health. These initiatives help to build a network of support among Black women, fostering a sense of community and solidarity.

Cherisse Scott emphasizes the importance of grassroots organizing in driving change. By mobilizing community members and encouraging them to participate in advocacy efforts, SisterReach empowers women to take ownership of their health and advocate for systemic change. This grassroots approach not only strengthens the community but also creates a ripple effect that can lead to broader societal change.

During Black Maternal Health Week, SisterReach hosts a series of events aimed at raising awareness and fostering community engagement. These events include panel discussions, workshops, and health screenings, all designed to educate and empower Black women. By bringing together community members, healthcare providers, and advocates, SisterReach creates a space for dialogue and collaboration.

The week also serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by Black mothers and the urgent need for systemic change. Through educational campaigns and advocacy efforts, SisterReach highlights the importance of recognizing and addressing the root causes of maternal health disparities.

Black Maternal Health Week is a vital opportunity to raise awareness about the disparities faced by Black women and to advocate for change. Organizations like SisterReach, led by the inspiring Cherisse Scott, are at the forefront of this movement, working tirelessly to ensure that Black mothers are valued, heard, and supported. By addressing systemic racism, providing education and resources, and fostering community engagement, SisterReach is making a significant impact on the health and well-being of Black women in Memphis and beyond.

As we observe Black Maternal Health Week, it is essential to recognize the importance of solidarity and advocacy in addressing the challenges faced by Black mothers. Through collective action and a commitment to equity, we can create a future where all women have access to the care and support they need during one of the most critical times in their lives.