Harnessing the Power of Narrative to Advance Birth Equity

About the Program

Category: Health (Best in Category)

Year: 2023

In Los Angeles County, Black babies die at approximately three times the rate of any other race. Black women/birthing people die because of complications during pregnancy and childbirth at four times the rate of other races. Omitting the role of racism drives solutions that do not move the needle. DPH launched the African American Infant and Maternal Mortality Initiative (AAIMM) as a countywide response energized by community, cross-sector collaboration, and the wisdom of lived experience. Countering misperceptions about the causes of unequal birth outcomes is central the AAIMM's overall effort. As part of the AAIMM Initiative, DPH and First 5 LA created a space for community organizing, resource sharing, and awareness-building. AAIMM Prevention Initiative Communications Program is focused on awareness and action around the disparity, interventions to address it, and the role community/public health partners play in ending it. Its theme of “a joyous and healthy birth takes a village” invites Black birthing families to activate a village of support for change. This effort created a Black-centered space, mobilized advocates, access to resources built from the voices of Black women/birthing people, and communications designed to face injustice head on, shifting the narrative from death and dying, to joy and health.