For Mothers We Have Lost Act: Addressing Black Maternal Health in Illinois

Why This Matters:

Black women in Illinois are nearly three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related complications than White women. In 2021, the maternal mortality rate for Black women was 69.9 per 100,000 live births, compared to 26.6 for White women. This disparity is unacceptable, and it’s time for real change.

The For Mothers We Have Lost Act aims to close the gap and ensure Black mothers receive the care, support, and attention they deserve. This Act will implement the following critical provisions to improve maternal health outcomes for Black women in Illinois:

Key Provisions of the For Mothers We Have Lost Act:

 1. Creation of a Statewide Black Maternal Health Advisory Council

We will establish a Black Maternal Health Advisory Council that includes Black healthcare professionals, community leaders, and advocates. This council will guide state policy and programs, ensuring that they are culturally competent and focused on the specific needs of Black women.

 2. Mandatory Implicit Bias and Cultural Competency Training

We call for mandatory implicit bias and cultural competency training for all healthcare providers to reduce the discrimination that leads to poor health outcomes for Black mothers. This training will be required annually across the state.

 3. Extended Postpartum Care

The Act will extend postpartum care to 12 months for Black mothers. This is crucial to address physical and mental health complications that continue well after childbirth, including those that disproportionately affect Black women.

 4. Increased Funding for Community-Based Programs

We will allocate funding to community-based organizations that directly serve Black mothers. These organizations provide vital education, support, and resources to ensure better health outcomes and awareness of available healthcare services.

 5. Focus on Mental Health Resources

The Act will provide expanded mental health support for Black mothers, including counseling, peer support groups, and trauma-informed care to address pregnancy-related mental health issues like postpartum depression and anxiety.

 6. Enhanced Data Collection and Accountability

We will require disaggregated data on maternal mortality and morbidity, with a focus on Black women’s health outcomes. Annual public reports will ensure accountability from healthcare providers and highlight areas for improvement.

 7. Legal Support and Advocacy

The Act will create a legal support network for Black mothers who face discrimination or neglect in healthcare. It will also provide a statewide hotline to offer legal and medical advocacy for affected families.

What You Can Do:

Sign this petition to show your support for the For Mothers We Have Lost Act and demand that Illinois take immediate action to close the Black maternal health gap. Together, we can ensure Black mothers receive the care they need and deserve.

By signing, you’re standing up for health equity and justice for Black women in Illinois. Let’s make a change that will save lives.