Author: lakischasmith

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The Environment’s Silent Role in African American Pregnancies

The Environment's Silent Role in African American Pregnancies

Hello, Mamas! Today, let’s shed some light on an issue of increasing importance – the impact of the environment on African American pregnancies, especially regarding preterm birth (PTB).

PTB, defined as a delivery before the 37th week of pregnancy, can lead to significant health issues for newborns, from respiratory to neurological problems[^1^]. PTB has a broad array of risk factors, both modifiable and non-modifiable, including genetics, overall health, and lifestyle[^2^].

Here’s where it gets intriguing: research increasingly points to environmental pollutants as a risk factor for PTB[^3^]. You might wonder, “Why are we focusing on African American pregnancies?” It all comes down to socio-economic disparities in environmental exposure.

Communities of color, particularly low-income neighborhoods, are frequently nestled near industrial areas or bustling roads. This unfortunate geographical disadvantage translates into increased exposure to various pollutants, such as pesticides, particulate matter, and toxic metals[^3^].

Recent studies reveal a shocking truth: the air in these non-white, low-income communities contains a higher concentration of hazardous particles, including potentially harmful elements like vanadium, nitrates, and zinc[^4^].

This disproportionate environmental burden places African American pregnancies at a unique risk. Numerous studies connect higher exposure levels to an increased incidence of PTB[^5^].

So, what can we do? Well, armed with this knowledge[^1^,^2^,^3^,^4^,^5^], we can work towards advocating for cleaner, safer environments for all mothers-to-be, with a particular focus on the African American community. This could mean lobbying for better public transportation in these areas, stricter regulations on industries, and equitable access to quality prenatal care.

By understanding the link between environmental exposure and PTB, we can aim for effective strategies to prevent PTB and work towards healthier pregnancies for all, irrespective of race or socio-economic status.

So let’s join hands, draw from the research, and press for the changes needed to protect our communities, our mothers, and our future generations. Because every child deserves a healthy start, and every mother deserves a safe environment.

References
[^1^] Goldenberg, R. L., Culhane, J. F., Iams, J. D., & Romero, R. (2008). Epidemiology and causes of preterm birth. The Lancet, 371(9606), 75-84.
[^2^] Blencowe, H., Cousens, S., Chou, D., Oestergaard, M., Say, L., Moller, A. B., … & Lawn, J. (2013). Born too soon: the global epidemiology of 15 million preterm births. Reproductive health, 10(1), S2.
[^3^] Ferguson, K. K., O’Neill, M. S., & Meeker, J. D. (2013). Environmental contaminant exposures and preterm birth: a comprehensive review. Journal of toxicology and environmental health. Part B, Critical reviews, 16(2), 69–113.
[^4^] Collins, M. B., Munoz, I., & Jaja, J. (2016). Linking ‘toxic outliers’ to environmental justice communities. Environmental research letters, 11(1), 015004.
[^5^] Stieb, D. M., Chen, L., Eshoul, M., & Judek, S. (2012). Ambient air pollution, birth weight and preterm birth: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Environmental

With Love, Lakischa Smith

Meet Lakischa Smith, a proud mother and a dedicated public health advocate. With a Bachelor’s from Dillard University and a Master’s in Public Health from Florida International University, she’s committed to sharing honest narratives about black motherhood. Lakischa believes in fostering sisterhood to combat the pervasive forces of white supremacy, and empowering African American women to be agents of change for future generations. She asserts that recognizing and addressing our community’s struggles is crucial, for healing is the key to moving forward. Armed with the power of education and a deep belief in collective action, Lakischa is determined to ensure that the issues impacting African American maternal health aren’t just seen—they’re addressed and resolved.

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Stronger Together: List of Empowering Support Groups for Black Moms

Stronger Together: Empowering Support Groups for Black Moms

Hey Mamas,

I hope this message finds you well. I know we’ve been talking a lot about the unique challenges that we as Black mothers face, and the importance of finding a supportive community where we can share our experiences, learn from each other, and grow together. I’ve been doing a bit of research and I think I found some groups that you might be interested in. These organizations offer resources and a safe space for us to navigate motherhood. Check them out:

  1. Moms of Color: A platform dedicated to providing resources and support to mothers of color, fostering a community where they can learn, grow, and nurture together and strive to be greater.
  2. The Kuponya Group: A virtual healing community that provides a safe space for Black mothers, the Kuponya Project encourages self-care, self-love, and self-expression.
  3. Black Maternal Health Alliance: This organization is dedicated to improving Black maternal health outcomes by promoting policy change and providing resources for education and advocacy.
  4. Black Women Birthing Justice: This grassroots organization works to improve Black maternal and reproductive justice through community organizing, education, and research.
  5. Mocha Moms: This national support group is for stay-at-home mothers of color who are looking to connect with other mothers and find resources for parenting and self-care.
  6. Sisters in Loss: This online community provides support and resources for Black women who have experienced infertility, baby loss, and miscarriage.
  7. Black Women’s Health Imperative: This organization advocates for policies and programs that improve the health and wellness of Black women and girls. They offer resources for reproductive and maternal health, mental health, and more.
  8. Black Mamas Matter Alliance: A national organization that advocates for the health and well-being of Black mothers and families. Their website provides information about policy, advocacy, and resources.
  9. National Birth Equity Collaborative: An organization that works to reduce maternal and infant mortality rates among Black women. They provide resources, training, and advocacy.

I hope you find these resources as helpful and empowering as I do. Remember, we’re not alone in this journey, and these groups are here to support us. Don’t hesitate to reach out to them or to me if you need anything. Let’s continue to uplift each other and grow as mothers and sisters. Take care and be well.

With Love, Lakischa Smith

Meet Lakischa Smith, a proud mother and a dedicated public health advocate. With a Bachelor’s from Dillard University and a Master’s in Public Health from Florida International University, she’s committed to sharing honest narratives about black motherhood. Lakischa believes in fostering sisterhood to combat the pervasive forces of white supremacy, and empowering African American women to be agents of change for future generations. She asserts that recognizing and addressing our community’s struggles is crucial, for healing is the key to moving forward. Armed with the power of education and a deep belief in collective action, Lakischa is determined to ensure that the issues impacting African American maternal health aren’t just seen—they’re addressed and resolved.

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Elevating Black Moms: A Guide to Prenatal & Postnatal Health

A Guide to Prenatal & Postnatal Health

Introduction Empowering Your Journey: A Resource for Black Mothers is designed to address the specific challenges Black mothers may face during their prenatal and postnatal care journey due to structural racism and bias. This guide is not meant to replace professional medical advice, but rather to provide some useful strategies and resources to help navigate this critical period.

Understanding the Challenges Black mothers in the United States face a disproportionately high rate of adverse pregnancy outcomes, including higher maternal mortality rates and higher incidences of conditions like preeclampsia and gestational diabetes. Structural racism, lack of access to quality care, and implicit bias in healthcare are significant contributors to these disparities​1​​2​.

Prenatal Care

  1. Finding a Supportive Healthcare Provider: It’s crucial to find a healthcare provider who understands and acknowledges these systemic issues. Your provider should be willing to listen to your concerns, respect your choices, and advocate for your health and well-being​2​.
  2. Advocate for Your Health: Speak up if you don’t feel well or have questions about your pregnancy. Don’t hesitate to seek a second opinion if needed. Remember, advocating for your health is crucial​1​.
  3. Understanding Your Risks: Be aware of the potential health risks associated with pregnancy, such as gestational diabetes and preeclampsia. If you have pre-existing conditions like hypertension or diabetes, make sure these are well-managed before and during pregnancy​1​.

Postnatal Care

  1. Extending Healthcare Coverage: Postpartum care is critical for the health of both the mother and the baby. Under the American Rescue Plan Act, Medicaid coverage for pregnant individuals can be extended from 60 days to one-year postpartum​1​​2​.
  2. Accessing Mental Health Resources: Mental health is just as important as physical health. Ensure that you have access to mental health resources and support during the postnatal period.
  3. Community Support: Join local or online support groups for Black mothers such as “The Kuponya Group“. These communities can offer invaluable advice, support, and resources based on their experiences.

Policy Changes and Advocacy It’s important to recognize that changes need to be made at a systemic level to address these disparities. Advocacy for policy changes, such as improving access to healthcare for Medicaid enrollees, extending postpartum coverage, and passing laws like the Black Maternal Health Momnibus, is critical in this endeavor​2​.

Conclusion By being informed and proactive, you can play a vital role in ensuring your health and the health of your baby. Remember, it’s essential to advocate for yourself, seek support, and contribute to systemic changes to improve outcomes for Black mothers.

Please note that this guide should be used as a starting point and a resource. Always consult with healthcare professionals regarding any health-related decisions during your pregnancy and postnatal period.

With Love, Lakischa Smith

Meet Lakischa Smith, a proud mother and a dedicated public health advocate. With a Bachelor’s from Dillard University and a Master’s in Public Health from Florida International University, she’s committed to sharing honest narratives about black motherhood. Lakischa believes in fostering sisterhood to combat the pervasive forces of white supremacy, and empowering African American women to be agents of change for future generations. She asserts that recognizing and addressing our community’s struggles is crucial, for healing is the key to moving forward. Armed with the power of education and a deep belief in collective action, Lakischa is determined to ensure that the issues impacting African American maternal health aren’t just seen—they’re addressed and resolved.

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The Maternal Care Crisis in the United States: A Call for Radical Change

The Maternal Care Crisis in the United States: A Call for Radical Change

The maternal care crisis in the United States transcends the country’s high rate of maternal mortality and infant mortality. Adverse pregnancy outcomes like miscarriage, premature birth, and conditions such as gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, eclampsia, embolism, and postpartum depression all feature prominently in this crisis. All these adverse outcomes, including the rate of maternal and infant mortality, disproportionately affect Black birthing individuals and their babies more than any other demographic in the country​1​.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported that maternal mortality rose by 40% from 2020 to 2021, with the maternal mortality rate for Black women being 2.6 times higher than that for white women. This statistic is not only alarming but points to a deeply entrenched problem of racial inequity in the healthcare system​1​.

The causes of this disparity are multifaceted, ranging from healthcare access issues and underlying chronic conditions to structural racism and implicit bias​1​​2​. Chronic conditions such as hypertension and diabetes often go uncontrolled during pregnancy, increasing the risk of complications​1​. Lack of adequate insurance coverage before, during, and after pregnancy, the absence of interprofessional teams trained in best practices, and the closure of maternity units in many communities all exacerbate the crisis​1​.

Structural racism has played a significant role in these dismal health outcomes. It has led to the devaluing of Black people and has significant impacts on people’s health. It is a powerful social condition rooted in centuries of oppression and continues to persist today in our healthcare policies and practices​2​. Over time, harmful institutional practices and negative cultural representations have contributed to traumatic pregnancy and birthing experiences for Black women​2​.

In response to this crisis, health care providers need training to recognize and address racism and bias in their interactions with Black patients, ensuring that care respects and values Black life​2​. Public policy changes are also necessary, especially those related to healthcare access. The American Rescue Plan Act of 2021 extended Medicaid coverage for pregnant people from 60 days to one-year postpartum, but more permanent solutions are needed, such as mandatory extension of postpartum coverage to at least one year, and the passage of the Black Maternal Health Momnibus​2​.

Sympathy and awareness are necessary but insufficient; there must be a radical shift in how Black women and birthing people are treated and cared for on a systemic level. This shift begins by acknowledging their humanity, hearing their voices, and listening to their stories. The role of each individual in dismantling structural racism, a key contributor to racial disparities in maternal health, cannot be overstated. It is well past time to implement policies and healthcare practices to ensure quality healthcare that is equitable and respectful of Black women and birthing individuals​2​.

In the words of Dr. Plenty, “Advocate, advocate, advocate for yourself. And if you need a second opinion, that’s not insulting” to the first physician​1​.

With Love, Lakischa Smith

Meet Lakischa Smith, a proud mother and a dedicated public health advocate. With a Bachelor’s from Dillard University and a Master’s in Public Health from Florida International University, she’s committed to sharing honest narratives about black motherhood. Lakischa believes in fostering sisterhood to combat the pervasive forces of white supremacy, and empowering African American women to be agents of change for future generations. She asserts that recognizing and addressing our community’s struggles is crucial, for healing is the key to moving forward. Armed with the power of education and a deep belief in collective action, Lakischa is determined to ensure that the issues impacting African American maternal health aren’t just seen—they’re addressed and resolved.

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The Impact of White Supremacy on African American Families

The Impact of White Supremacy on African American Families

White supremacy is a socio-political ideology that asserts the superiority of the white race over other races, particularly over people of African descent. This ideology has been a prevailing force in shaping the historical and contemporary experiences of African Americans, imprinting a profound impact on family structures, economic opportunities, health, and overall well-being. This article aims to explore the numerous ways white supremacy has affected African American families throughout history and continues to do so today.

Historical Context

The legacy of white supremacy on African American families can be traced back to the era of slavery. This brutal system forcibly disrupted African family units, separating loved ones through the sale of human beings as chattel. The systematic and intentional fracturing of African families was a form of psychological warfare that sought to undermine the strength and resilience of African communities.

Post-slavery, during the Jim Crow era, African American families faced racial segregation, economic disadvantage, and systemic violence. The denial of quality education and opportunities for wealth accumulation prevented many African American families from achieving economic mobility. These racialized economic disadvantages are deeply ingrained, with effects persisting in the form of wealth gaps that continue to this day.

Contemporary Impacts

In the present day, the impacts of white supremacy on African American families are evident across multiple domains.

  1. Economic Inequality: Despite the progress made since the civil rights movement, stark racial disparities persist in wealth and income, a direct result of centuries of systemic racism. Discriminatory practices like redlining and the racial wage gap have limited the economic opportunities available to African American families.
  2. Criminal Justice System: African Americans are disproportionately represented in the criminal justice system. This overrepresentation, driven by systemic racism and bias, leads to higher rates of incarceration, which disrupts families and has profound long-term impacts on children and communities.
  3. Health Disparities: African Americans face significant disparities in health outcomes. The stress of living in a racially biased society, along with disparities in access to quality healthcare, contribute to higher rates of chronic diseases and lower life expectancies.
  4. Education: Racial disparities in educational opportunities and outcomes persist, due largely to systemic racism. This includes underfunded schools in predominantly African American neighborhoods and the school-to-prison pipeline, which disproportionately affects African American students.

Conclusion

The legacy of white supremacy continues to cast a long shadow over African American families, manifesting in economic inequality, disparities in the criminal justice system, health disparities, and unequal access to quality education. While progress has been made, acknowledging and addressing the deep-seated roots of systemic racism is crucial for creating a society that offers equal opportunities to all its members, regardless of their racial or ethnic background.

Moving forward, it is essential to continue confronting and dismantling systemic racism and white supremacy at all levels of society, from individual attitudes and behaviors to institutional policies and practices. By doing so, we can begin to rectify the historical injustices inflicted upon African American families and work toward a future characterized by genuine equality and justice.

With Love, Lakischa Smith

Meet Lakischa Smith, a proud mother and a dedicated public health advocate. With a Bachelor’s from Dillard University and a Master’s in Public Health from Florida International University, she’s committed to sharing honest narratives about black motherhood. Lakischa believes in fostering sisterhood to combat the pervasive forces of white supremacy, and empowering African American women to be agents of change for future generations. She asserts that recognizing and addressing our community’s struggles is crucial, for healing is the key to moving forward. Armed with the power of education and a deep belief in collective action, Lakischa is determined to ensure that the issues impacting African American maternal health aren’t just seen—they’re addressed and resolved.

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Top 7 Books Celebrating Black Mothers by Black Authors

Top 7 Books Celebrating Black Mothers & Motherhood by Black Authors

Hey Sis!

I’ve been digging into some really amazing books lately that I just can’t wait to share with you. These Top 7 Books Celebrating Black Mothers by Black Authors aren’t just any books, though – they’re all about Black mothers and motherhood, and they’re all penned by incredible Black authors. From heart-wrenching tales to inspiring memoirs, these books have made me laugh, cry, and most importantly, think.

So, are you ready to explore some powerful stories together? Let’s dive into this list of Top 7 Books Celebrating Black Mothers by Black Authors that paint an intimate portrait of Black motherhood. Whether you’re a book lover, a mom, or just someone looking for new perspectives, these books are sure to leave a lasting impression. So, get comfy, grab a cup of your favorite drink, and let’s get started.

  1. Beloved by Toni Morrison: This Pulitzer Prize-winning novel is a masterpiece of literature that examines the destructive legacy of slavery. It follows the life of a Black woman named Sethe, from her pre-Civil War days as a slave in Kentucky to her time in Cincinnati, Ohio, in 1873. Morrison’s elegant prose, fantastical occurrences, striking characters, and racial tension make this novel a profound exploration of history as powerful as Exodus and as intimate as a lullaby.
  2. Conjure Women by Afia Atakora: This debut novel tells the story of a mother and daughter with shared talents for healing and conjuring curses. Set in the South before and after the Civil War, Atakora explores the troubled relationships and dark secrets of plantation inhabitants as the world changes around them, bringing this time period vividly to life​.
  3. The Mothers by Brit Bennett: This novel is set in a tight-knit Black community in Southern California and focuses on the lasting impact of a secret on a grieving girl, her boyfriend, and her best friend. The “mothers” are elderly African American women who devote themselves to the local black church. Bennett’s first novel is an emotionally perceptive story about community, love, and ambition​.
  4. Three Mothers by Anna Malaika Tubbs: In this groundbreaking work, Tubbs celebrates Black motherhood by telling the story of the women who raised and shaped some of America’s most pivotal heroes: Martin Luther King, Jr., Malcolm X, and James Baldwin. Tubbs explores the lives of “the women before the men,” offering a new perspective on these influential figures through the lens of their mothers​.
  5. The Autobiography of My Mother by Jamaica Kincaid: This novel tells the story of Xuela Claudette Richardson, a woman of mixed heritage living on the island of Dominica. After losing her mother to childbirth, Xuela must forge her own path from an early age. Kincaid’s novel is a powerful, disturbing, and deeply charged account of one woman’s life, filled with love, fear, loss, and character forging​​.
  6. Mom and Me and Mom by Maya Angelou: In this memoir, Angelou explores her relationship with her mother, Vivian Baxter. She delves into one of her life’s most rich, rewarding, and fraught relationships, revealing how the healing and love that evolved between the two women fostered Angelou’s rise from immeasurable depths to reach impossible heights​.
  7. I Am Not Your Baby Mother by Candice Braithwaite: This book is part memoir, part manifesto about life as a Black British mother. Braithwaite shares her journey to parenthood, discussing everything from postnatal depression to the realization that she can’t fully protect her children from racism. This inspirational guide criticizes the problematically homogenous portrayal of maternity in British media, offering a fresh and timely perspective.

Well, that wraps up our journey through these amazing books celebrating Black mothers and motherhood. I hope you’ve found a few (or all!) of them as compelling as I did. Each of these stories is a testament to the strength, resilience, and boundless love of Black mothers. So, whether you pick up one or all of these books, I promise you’re in for a literary treat. Remember, stories shape our understanding of the world, and by diving into these narratives, you’re embracing a wealth of experiences and perspectives. So, keep reading, keep exploring, and let’s keep sharing these incredible stories. Happy reading, Sis!

Oh and hey! Don’t forget to join The Kuponya Group’s book club, where we gather weekly to discuss our current book selection.

With Love, Lakischa Smith

Meet Lakischa Smith, a proud mother and a dedicated public health advocate. With a Bachelor’s from Dillard University and a Master’s in Public Health from Florida International University, she’s committed to sharing honest narratives about black motherhood. Lakischa believes in fostering sisterhood to combat the pervasive forces of white supremacy, and empowering African American women to be agents of change for future generations. She asserts that recognizing and addressing our community’s struggles is crucial, for healing is the key to moving forward. Armed with the power of education and a deep belief in collective action, Lakischa is determined to ensure that the issues impacting African American maternal health aren’t just seen—they’re addressed and resolved.

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Hey Mama, Rise Above Self-Doubt & Embrace Financial Success

Rise Above Self-Doubt: Embrace Financial Success

Listen up, my friend. We need to have a real talk about reaching your full potential and the mental obstacles that are holding you back from your goals and securing generational wealth for your children. I’m here to give you some tough love because I believe in you. It’s time to address that self-doubt and self-criticism that’s been sabotaging your path to financial success. Let’s dive deep, confront those mental barriers head-on, and unleash your true potential.

  1. Owning Your Inner Critic: Facing Self-Doubt and Negative Talk Stop letting that inner critic run the show, my friend. It’s time to acknowledge those self-doubts and negative thoughts that hold you back. You are capable, talented, and deserving of financial success. Challenge those negative beliefs and replace them with affirmations that remind you of your worth and potential.
  2. Embracing Growth: Pushing Past Comfort Zones It’s easy to stay within our comfort zones, but growth happens when we push beyond them. Don’t let fear hold you back from taking risks and seizing opportunities. Embrace discomfort, embrace failure as a stepping stone to success, and step into new territory. It’s through these challenges that you’ll discover your true potential.
  3. Overcoming Analysis Paralysis: Taking Action in the Face of Uncertainty Enough with the overthinking, my friend. Analysis paralysis will only keep you stuck. It’s time to make decisions, even in the face of uncertainty. Trust your instincts, gather the necessary information, and take that leap of faith. Remember, progress is born from action, not endless contemplation.
  4. Embracing Failure as a Learning Opportunity: Resilience in the Face of Setbacks Failure is not the end—it’s a chance to learn, grow, and come back even stronger. Don’t let a setback define you or dampen your spirits. Embrace failure as a valuable learning experience, adjust your approach, and keep moving forward. It’s through resilience that you’ll overcome those mental obstacles and achieve greatness.
  5. Seeking Support and Constructive Feedback: Surrounding Yourself with Allies You don’t have to do this alone, my friend. Seek support from those who believe in you, whether it’s friends, mentors, or coaches. Surround yourself with allies who will provide constructive feedback and challenge you to reach new heights. Embrace their guidance and use it to fuel your growth.
  6. Celebrating Your Wins: Acknowledging Your Progress and Successes Stop dismissing your accomplishments, my friend. Celebrate your wins, no matter how small they may seem. Recognize your progress, acknowledge your hard work, and give yourself the credit you deserve. Celebrating your successes boosts your confidence, fuels your motivation, and keeps you on the path to greater achievements.

Conclusion: Now, my friend, it’s time to take control of your destiny and confront those mental obstacles that have been holding you back. Silence that inner critic, step out of your comfort zone, and take action. Embrace failure as a learning opportunity, seek support from allies, and celebrate your wins along the way. You have untapped potential within you, waiting to be unleashed. Believe in yourself, embrace the journey, and let your determination and resilience guide you to the financial success you’ve always desired. It’s time to rise above self-doubt and claim what’s rightfully yours. Now go out there and show the world what you’re made of!

With Love, Lakischa Smith

Meet Lakischa Smith, a proud mother and a dedicated public health advocate. With a Bachelor’s from Dillard University and a Master’s in Public Health from Florida International University, she’s committed to sharing honest narratives about black motherhood. Lakischa believes in fostering sisterhood to combat the pervasive forces of white supremacy, and empowering African American women to be agents of change for future generations. She asserts that recognizing and addressing our community’s struggles is crucial, for healing is the key to moving forward. Armed with the power of education and a deep belief in collective action, Lakischa is determined to ensure that the issues impacting African American maternal health aren’t just seen—they’re addressed and resolved.

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Empowering Self-Care for Black Mothers: A Comprehensive Guide

Empowering Self-Care for Black Mothers: A Comprehensive Guide and Resource

Discover the power of self-care specifically tailored for Black mothers with this comprehensive guide. Learn strategies and gain valuable resources to prioritize your well-being as you navigate the joys and challenges of motherhood. By embracing self-care practices, you can enhance your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Join us on this journey of empowerment and self-discovery, as we provide valuable insights to optimize your self-care routine as a Black mother. Also, don’t forget to join our virtual healing community The Kuponya Group specifically for mothers of color. Okay, lets get started, you may want to get your notebook for this article. It’s created to help you think about what work specifically for YOU.

  1. Understanding the Importance of Self-Care for Black Mothers:
  • Explore the significance of self-care as a Black mother and its impact on your overall well-being.
  • Discover how self-care practices can contribute to your resilience, happiness, and ability to thrive in your various roles.
  1. Identifying Your Unique Self-Care Needs:
  • Reflect on your personal needs and aspirations beyond your role as a mother.
  • Explore different aspects of self-care, including physical, emotional, mental, social, and spiritual well-being.
  1. Practical Self-Care Strategies for Black Mothers:
  • Discover actionable and realistic self-care practices that can be integrated into your daily routine.
  • Explore activities such as mindfulness exercises, journaling, meditation, and engaging in hobbies that bring you joy.
  1. Prioritizing Physical Health and Wellness:
  • Learn strategies to prioritize physical health through exercise, nutritious eating, and adequate rest.
  • Understand the importance of self-care practices, including regular check-ups and seeking medical support when needed.
  1. Nurturing Emotional Resilience and Mental Well-being:
  • Explore techniques to manage stress, anxiety, and overwhelm in your everyday life.
  • Discover practices such as affirmations, visualization, therapy, and self-reflection to foster emotional and mental well-being.
  1. Building a Supportive Network and Community:
  • Recognize the power of a strong support system and the value of connecting with other Black mothers.
  • Discover resources and organizations dedicated to supporting and uplifting Black mothers on their self-care journey.
  1. Setting Boundaries and Prioritizing Self:
  • Learn the art of setting healthy boundaries to protect your well-being.
  • Understand that saying “no” when necessary is an act of self-care and self-preservation.
  1. Embracing Self-Compassion and Practicing Forgiveness:
  • Cultivate self-compassion and embrace forgiveness as part of your self-care journey.
  • Understand that self-care is an act of love, not selfishness, and prioritize your own well-being.
  1. Balancing Work, Motherhood, and Self-Care:
  • Explore strategies to achieve work-life balance and manage the demands of career and motherhood.
  • Discover time management techniques, delegation, and setting realistic expectations for your own self-care.
  1. Curated Resources and Support for Black Mothers’ Self-Care:
  • Access a curated list of books, podcasts, online communities, and support groups specifically dedicated to self-care for Black mothers.

Conclusion: Prioritize your self-care journey as a Black mother with this comprehensive guide. Discover the power of self-care in enhancing your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. By investing in yourself, you can navigate motherhood with resilience, joy, and fulfillment. Embrace this opportunity to empower yourself and optimize your self-care routine, ensuring you thrive as a whole, fulfilled Black mother. Begin your self-care journey today and nurture the incredible woman and mother within you.

With Love, Lakischa Smith

Meet Lakischa Smith, a proud mother and a dedicated public health advocate. With a Bachelor’s from Dillard University and a Master’s in Public Health from Florida International University, she’s committed to sharing honest narratives about black motherhood. Lakischa believes in fostering sisterhood to combat the pervasive forces of white supremacy, and empowering African American women to be agents of change for future generations. She asserts that recognizing and addressing our community’s struggles is crucial, for healing is the key to moving forward. Armed with the power of education and a deep belief in collective action, Lakischa is determined to ensure that the issues impacting African American maternal health aren’t just seen—they’re addressed and resolved.

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The Urgent Need for Change: Tackling Black Maternal Health Disparities

Black Maternal Health Disparities

Hi Sisters! So, here is the word, Black women in the United States experience three to four times higher rates of pregnancy-related deaths compared to white women. This disparity also extends to their infants, who are over twice as likely to die. Factors contributing to these disparities include limited access to quality healthcare, socioeconomic status, implicit bias, and systemic racism.

The Consequences: These disparities have heartbreaking consequences. Black women face unacceptably poor maternal health outcomes, with disproportionately high rates of death related to childbirth. In 2020, non-Hispanic Black women had a maternal mortality rate of 55.3 deaths per 100,000 births, nearly three times higher than that of non-Hispanic white women. These disparities impact not only the mothers but also their families and communities. It is a reality we cannot tolerate.

Addressing the Root Causes: To combat these disparities, we must address the root causes. We need to dismantle systemic barriers and advocate for policies that promote equitable maternal healthcare. Improving access to quality prenatal and postnatal care is crucial, along with reducing racial bias in healthcare settings. Culturally competent care and anti-bias training for healthcare providers contribute to a more inclusive and respectful environment.

Additionally, addressing social determinants of health is vital in tackling maternal health disparities. Factors such as unstable housing, limited transportation, food insecurity, and substance use must be comprehensively addressed to support Black mothers. By actively eliminating these disparities, we can create a healthcare system that prioritizes the well-being of all women.

The Way Forward: Addressing concerning Black maternal health disparities requires a collaborative effort. Advocacy groups, community organizations, policymakers, and individuals play a crucial role in driving change. Together, we can raise awareness, advocate for policy reforms, and promote initiatives that prioritize equity in maternal healthcare.

Conclusion: The reality of Black maternal health disparities is a pressing issue that demands our attention and action. We cannot ignore the disproportionately high rates of pregnancy-related deaths and poor maternal health outcomes experienced by Black women. By understanding the root causes, advocating for change, and fostering a healthcare system that prioritizes equity, we can work towards a future where every woman, regardless of her race or ethnicity, receives safe, respectful, and equitable care during pregnancy and childbirth. Let us stand together, united in our commitment to addressing these disparities and creating a brighter, more equitable future for all mothers.

Links:

With Love, Lakischa Smith

Meet Lakischa Smith, a proud mother and a dedicated public health advocate. With a Bachelor’s from Dillard University and a Master’s in Public Health from Florida International University, she’s committed to sharing honest narratives about black motherhood. Lakischa believes in fostering sisterhood to combat the pervasive forces of white supremacy, and empowering African American women to be agents of change for future generations. She asserts that recognizing and addressing our community’s struggles is crucial, for healing is the key to moving forward. Armed with the power of education and a deep belief in collective action, Lakischa is determined to ensure that the issues impacting African American maternal health aren’t just seen—they’re addressed and resolved.

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Embracing Our Mothering and Healing Nature but Eliminating the Desire to Heal Our Romantic Partners

Within us lies a profound mothering and healing essence, rooted in our innate nature. As caregivers and nurturers, we are often drawn to partners who are in need of healing, hoping to extend our love and support. However, it is crucial for us to recognize the importance of prioritizing our own well-being and eliminating the desire to heal our romantic partners. In this article, we explore the significance of embracing our mothering and healing nature while redefining our approach to relationships.

The Power of Embracing Our Mothering and Healing Nature: As women, our capacity to mother and heal is extraordinary. We possess a natural inclination to care for and nurture those around us. Embracing this essence allows us to create loving, supportive environments that foster growth and well-being. However, it is essential to understand that healing others should not come at the cost of our own emotional and mental health.

The Need for Self-Nurturing: Amidst our desire to heal, it is imperative that we prioritize self-nurturing. By acknowledging our own needs, practicing self-care, and setting healthy boundaries, we ensure our emotional reserves are replenished. By nurturing ourselves, we not only enhance our well-being but also establish a strong foundation from which we can genuinely support and care for others.

Recognizing the Limitations of Romantic Partnerships: Although the desire to heal our romantic partners may stem from a place of love, it is crucial to acknowledge the limitations of such partnerships. Romantic relationships should not be the sole avenue for healing. Instead, we must encourage personal growth and individual responsibility in our partners, allowing them to embark on their own healing journeys.

Shifting Focus to Mutual Growth and Support: Rather than seeking to heal our partners, we can foster relationships based on mutual growth and support. By creating an environment of open communication, active listening, and shared aspirations, we can cultivate a space where both partners can thrive, evolve, and support each other’s personal healing journeys.

Embracing Individual Healing Paths: Each person’s healing journey is unique, and it is essential to recognize that we cannot heal others without their consent or desire for growth. Instead, we can offer love, understanding, and encouragement as they embark on their own paths of healing. By honoring their autonomy and supporting their choices, we create an atmosphere of empowerment and respect.

Seeking Alternative Avenues for Healing: In our quest to heal, it is vital to explore alternative avenues beyond romantic relationships. Engaging in friendships, seeking mentorship, participating in support groups, or pursuing individual therapy can provide spaces for growth, healing, and meaningful connections. These alternative avenues expand our support network and provide diverse perspectives on our healing journeys.

Conclusion: Embracing our mothering and healing nature is a powerful and beautiful aspect of our being. By prioritizing self-nurturing, recognizing the limitations of romantic partnerships, and embracing individual healing paths, we redefine our approach to relationships. Let us nurture ourselves, encourage personal growth in our partners, and seek alternative avenues for healing. In doing so, we foster healthy connections, empower ourselves and others, and embark on transformative journeys of personal and collective healing.

With Love, Lakischa Smith

Meet Lakischa Smith, a proud mother and a dedicated public health advocate. With a Bachelor’s from Dillard University and a Master’s in Public Health from Florida International University, she’s committed to sharing honest narratives about black motherhood. Lakischa believes in fostering sisterhood to combat the pervasive forces of white supremacy, and empowering African American women to be agents of change for future generations. She asserts that recognizing and addressing our community’s struggles is crucial, for healing is the key to moving forward. Armed with the power of education and a deep belief in collective action, Lakischa is determined to ensure that the issues impacting African American maternal health aren’t just seen—they’re addressed and resolved.