Our country is experiencing a maternal and reproductive health care crisis. Despite being the richest country in the world, the US has the highest maternal mortality rate among developed nations. More than 80% of pregnancy-related deaths are preventable, and tragically, Black mothers die of pregnancy complications at nearly three times the rate of white mothers. These disparities have only worsened since the Supreme Court’s 2022 Dobbs decision and subsequent abortion bans. Driven by our Jewish values of pikuach nefesh (saving lives) and achrayut (social responsibility), we must act to help protect mothers and remedy racial injustice. 

The Black Maternal Health Momnibus Act is a package of 13 bills that seeks to comprehensively address the maternal health crisis. Because Black women are more likely to experience complications, receive inadequate care, and face systemic barriers to reproductive health due to structural and medical racism, the Momnibus works within and beyond the health care system to make birthing safer for people of color. Bills include investments in nutrition, transportation, and housing programs; expansion and diversification of the perinatal workforce; improvements to data collection processes; and support for community-based organizations.

Read our talking points here.

Health care is a right, not a privilege, for all — before, during, and after pregnancy and birth. Speak out to help end the maternal health crisis by urging your lawmakers to introduce and support the Black Maternal Health Momnibus today!