Community Health Worker Coalition for Migrants and Refugees (CHWCMR) prioritizes Perinatal Mental Health For BIPOC Communities in Washington.

 "Participating in the 'Walking Together' program was life changing. Through the workshops, I learned about perinatal depression, and realized I was experiencing it myself. The information and support helped me understand what I was going through and begin to heal.

" Similarly, MM from Pierce County shares, "The knowledge I gained from 'Walking Together' was incredibly valuable. Now I feel empowered to support other women who may be facing similar challenges."

These personal accounts underscore a critical issue that needs urgent attention: the prioritization of perinatal mental health as a public health and equity matter for BIPOC migrant, immigrant, and refugee families in Washington. 

CHWCMR urges prioritizing perinatal mental health as a public health and equity issue, especially for Latino migrant, immigrant, and refugee families, during this legislative session. Untreated perinatal mental health conditions, such as postpartum depression and anxiety, can lead to poor maternal health, impaired child development, and long-term family instability. These communities face significant barriers to care, including language, fear of deportation, lack of culturally sensitive services, and lack of insurance. These challenges are compounded by harmful anti-immigrant rhetoric and policies.

Our organization has responded by creating Caminando Juntos: Walking Together, a culturally responsive program that has supported over 180 families across Washington State. Among program participants, 38% have a history of depression, 19% of participants experienced domestic violence, 5.8% have survived sexual abuse, and none were able to access mental health services. Over 80% were born outside the U.S. and lack insurance, half are under age 35, and 80% had two or more children. Our Community Health Workers completed key training, including Certified Peer Counselor and Mental Health First Aid, to provide trauma-informed, compassionate behavioral health support. Participants engage in peer-led support groups that address isolation, trauma, and healing. 

Funding for Caminando Juntos ends in 2025. To protect and expand this vital work, we urge the following:

1. Invest $250,000 per year to sustain Caminando Juntos.
2. Expand access to culturally and linguistically appropriate perinatal services, including:
3. Coordinated care for Mental health screening and treatment
4. Peer support groups
5. Inclusive training for bilingual, multicultural providers
6. Reaffirm in legislative statute the right to seek care without fear of immigration enforcement action. This must not prevent families who are our friends and neighbors from accessing mental health care.

Supporting perinatal mental health is not only compassionate, it’s a matter of equity and justice for children who are the future of our state. I respectfully ask for your support in advancing legislation and funding that meet the needs of Latino families during this critical life stage.

Thank you for your solidarity and support.