At bi3, we believe that our community can be a place where every mother and young child has access to the care and resources they need to thrive, from pregnancy to early childhood. Because of this belief, we excitedly fund, support and amplify events in recognition of Black Maternal Health Week.
Held annually from April 11 – 17, Black Maternal Health Week (BMHW) events focus on amplifying the voices, perspectives and lived experiences of Black mamas and birthing people.
bi3 recently awarded $78,000 to local organizations to support such events. Below, you will find details about those events, plus others, held in recognition of the week. This list of events is being updated regularly. Check back for additional options and details
bi3-Funded Events
April 11 Events:
Birthing Joy: A Celebration of Black Motherhood
- Location TBD – Hamilton OH
- 5:30 – 8:30 p.m.
This will be an event where Black mothers feel seen and loved. The event will feature self-care practices, painting, dancing, light bites inspired by Black traditions, an empowerment panel (with topics including self-advocacy, mental wellness and the power of community) and more. During the event, awards will be provided honoring Black mothers from the community who exemplify leadership, resilience and love. Each attendee will leave with a gift.
Registration coming soon!
April 12 Events:
InHer Peace ™: Healing Day Retreat
- Cincinnati Museum Center, 1301 Western Ave, Cincinnati
- 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
The InHer Peace™️ Healing Day Retreat is a celebration of empowerment, serenity, and community connection. Participants will experience a nurturing environment that honors the journeys of Black women—mothers, pregnant individuals, aspiring mothers, and grandmothers—while fostering sisterhood. This event will feature the honoring of two birth advocates, poetry, yoga, guided meditation, storytelling and therapeutic art to promote self-expression and emotional healing. A key feature of the retreat is the Kids Creative Corner, allowing mothers to relax while their children, ages 5-12, engage in creative play. Each participant will also receive a swag bag filled with valuable resources. The retreat will include giveaways and door prizes, ensuring a memorable experience for all. Participants will leave feeling connected, empowered, and inspired.
Registration required!
Free Community Baby Shower
- Rosa Parks Elementary School, 1210 Verity Parkway, Middletown
- 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
This community baby shower is hosted by the Centering Program at Atrium Medical Center’s Maternal Health Center. It is open to any mother with an infant under the age of 1 or expecting moms.
- Free baby gifts and giveaways
- Fun activities, including gender reveal photo booth
- Q&A with doctors, doulas, and lactation consultants
- Raffles and refreshments
- Maternal health education and community resources
Registration is not required, but those who register will be given priority admittance.
The Mothership Institute: Black Birth Summit
- The Mothership Center
- 12 – 5 p.m.
A summit with keynote speakers, panels, and workshops on Black birth traditions, health equity, and solutions. Vendors and resources available.
Registration required; link coming soon!
April 13 Events:
HerSTORY: Joy Mapping and Storytelling
- WordPlay Cincy, 1556 Chase Avenue, Cincinnati
- 1-7 p.m.
This event focuses on crafting healthier and happier futures for Black birthing individuals. The primary objective of this event is to create a supportive environment where Black women can reframe their narratives surrounding childbirth and identify key resources in the community where they can find ongoing support.
Registration required
April 14 Events:
April 15 Events:
Mommy Play Date Inc. & Make It Happen Mommy: Mommy Thrive Weekend – Zumba, Connection, and Communication (Day 1)
- Location TBD
- Time TBD
A two-day event dedicated to mental health and family wellness. The first day will feature energizing Zumba sessions, followed by breakout discussions on self-care, time management, and building a strong support system for moms. Attendees will enjoy lunch, networking, and community engagement. This event is designed to empower families through movement, mindfulness, and meaningful conversations while fostering a supportive community.
April 16 Events:
April 17 Events:
NyNi Inc.: Second Annual Pause & Let’s Celebrate
- 5 – 7 p.m.
- Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park, 1763 Hamilton Cleves Rd, Hamilton OH
Join us for our second annual “Pause & Let’s Celebrate!” event as we come together to amplify Black voices, advocate for change, and celebrate the beauty and power of Black motherhood. After a full week of working collectively to support these efforts across Southwest Ohio, we invite you to “Pause & Celebrate!” the resilience, contributions, and ongoing impact of Black women.
Registration required.
Mommy Play Date Inc. & Make It Happen Mommy: Mommy Thrive Weekend – Zumba, Connection, and Communication (Day 2)
- Location TBD
- Time TBD
A two-day event dedicated to mental health and family wellness. The second day will focus on family communication and etiquette, offering a hands-on table etiquette class for kids and a parent workshop on effective communication with children. Vendors will have the opportunity to share resources, and guests will receive craft bags filled with helpful materials. This event is designed to empower families through movement, mindfulness, and meaningful conversations while fostering a supportive community.
Additional Events
April 12:
Doula Crash Course : Birth & Beyond
- Cincinnati Public Library – Downtown Main Branch 3 South, Room E
- 12:30 – 3:30 p.m.
Expecting a baby? Support a loved one through birth? This 3-hour crash course is designed for parents, grandparents, partners and friends who want to be confident, informed and prepared. Discussion will include what doulas do and why they matter; how to build the best birth team; birth plans and labor positions; postpartum recovery and newborn care; and more!
No registration required.
