[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 69 (Friday, April 19, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E373]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





                 BLACK MATERNAL HEALTH WEEK AND CRISIS

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. JOYCE BEATTY

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, April 19, 2024

  Mrs. BEATTY. Mr Speaker, I rise today in recognition of Black 
Maternal Health Week, to urgently address the ongoing epidemic 
surrounding the mortality and health of Black mothers, and to implore 
this esteemed body to take decisive action on legislation that can help 
reverse this alarming reality.
  Women in America are tragically dying at a higher rate from 
pregnancy-related causes than in any other developed nation. The 
disparities are even more stark for Black women, who are three times 
more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes than their white 
counterparts. This heartbreaking statistic is rooted in a long history 
of systemic racism and bias. Studies reveal that Black women facing 
severe injuries or pregnancy complications, or simply seeking 
assistance, are often dismissed or overlooked in healthcare settings 
that should prioritize their care--a stark truth regardless of 
socioeconomic status. A recent study highlighted that even the 
wealthiest Black mothers and their babies face twice the risk of 
mortality compared to their white counterparts. This disparity 
transcends income, as high-income Black women and low-income white 
women experience similar rates of childbirth-related deaths. 
Additionally, many nonaffluent Black mothers lack access to safe 
housing, affordable transportation, and nutritious food--essential 
elements that profoundly impact maternal health. Systemic injustice in 
our health care and other national capabilities threatens the lives and 
well-being of all Black mothers, who are unequivocally American 
mothers.
  We cannot allow these inequities to persist when potential solutions 
exist. I urge my esteemed colleagues to rally behind the efforts and 
legislation of the Black Maternal Caucus, dedicated to addressing these 
pressing concerns and championing the welfare of Black mothers. A 
crucial step forward is the passage of The Black Maternal Health 
Momnibus Act, H.R. 3305 comprising 13 vital bills aimed at tackling 
this crisis and promoting healthcare equity for Black mothers. The 
Momnibus encompasses measures to enhance healthcare and economic 
support for Black mothers, bolster our federal and community capacity 
to understand and rectify this crisis, and expand and diversify our 
perinatal workforce to better serve Black mothers. This monumental 
legislation is cosponsored by 193 of my House Democratic colleagues, 32 
senators, and backing from 200 stakeholder organizations.
  The Momnibus Act can be a vital first step in forging an America 
where Black mothers can flourish. Let us unite in our commitment to 
ensure the health and well-being of all mothers, regardless of race or 
socioeconomic status, as we strive towards a future where every mother 
receives the care and support she deserves.

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