We are a statewide coalition representing thousands of Black women across New Jersey, united in purpose and voice.

We congratulate Governor Mikie Sherrill on her election and look forward to working alongside her administration to advance policies that strengthen families, communities, and the well-being of all New Jersey residents.

Black women have long played a vital role in the civic and economic life of this state. In this election, we participated at exceptionally high levels, reflecting both our engagement and our belief in this leadership and vision for New Jersey. Now, we are continuing that engagement to ensure Black women’s perspectives are meaningfully reflected in the decisions that shape our collective future.

Across New Jersey, Black women continue to face disparities in maternal health, chronic disease, economic opportunity, and representation in decision-making spaces. These are not abstract challenges. They are lived realities that require solutions that are just as specific, intentional, and urgent.

We recognize and appreciate the meaningful investments proposed in the FY27 State Budget, particularly in areas such as maternal health, childcare, and workforce development. These investments provide a strong foundation. At the same time, there are clear opportunities to strengthen their impact through more targeted strategies that better reach Black women and their families. 

We are calling for the following refinements:

• Strengthen Black maternal health outcomes
  Expand community-based perinatal care targeted to black women, invest in doulas, and continue efforts to reduce disparities for black women in maternal outcomes.
• Address menopause and midlife health gaps
  Expand awareness, provider training, and insurance coverage to respond to the distinct menopause experiences of Black women, who often face earlier onset, more severe symptoms, and longer duration with limited access to appropriate care.
• Advance economic security and wage equity
  Implement targeted pay equity strategies that address the persistent wage gap experienced by Black women, expand access to capital and contracting opportunities for Black women entrepreneurs, and increase access to affordable, high-quality childcare to support workforce participation and economic mobility.
• Expand chronic disease prevention and mental health care
  Invest in culturally responsive, community-based care models that address the higher rates of hypertension, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and under-treated mental health conditions among Black women, while strengthening access to trusted providers and preventive services.
• Support caregivers and families
  Recognize the disproportionate role Black women play as unpaid caregivers by expanding financial supports such as tax credits and stipends, increasing access to affordable childcare and eldercare, and advancing workplace policies that support flexibility and long-term economic stability.
• Increase leadership representation
  Ensure Black women are intentionally appointed to boards, commissions, and key leadership roles across state government.
• Ensure transparency and accountability
  Provide clear public reporting that breaks down outcomes for major initiatives by geography, race, ethnicity, and gender so residents can understand how state investments are reaching Black women.

The intersection of race and gender often produces distinct outcomes. Without targeted strategies, even strong investments can fall short of reaching those who need them most.

When Black women are centered in policy decisions, the benefits extend to families, communities, and the entire state.

Our Request
We are asking the Governor’s administration and members of the New Jersey Legislature to:

1. Consider these priorities as the FY27 budget is finalized before June 30, 2026
2. Engage directly with leaders from our coalition to discuss these recommendations
3. Establish an ongoing channel for dialogue to ensure continued alignment on issues impacting Black women

Call to Action

Add your name to this letter to support intentional, more equitable investments in New Jersey. Join thousands of Black women and allies across the state who are coming together to ensure our voices are reflected in the policies that shape our lives. 

After signing, share this petition with your network to help build collective impact. Together, we are strengthening not just outcomes for Black women, but the future of New Jersey.

To join our coalition and receive updates visit: bit.ly/joinwwbwnj