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.

This year, bi3 awarded $78,000 to local organizations to support such events.

Just a few examples of the many events planned:

The event featured 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. Awards were also given to honor Black mothers from the community who exemplify leadership, resilience, and love.

The event focused on crafting healthier and happier futures for Black birthing individuals by creating 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.  

The InHer Peace™️ Healing Day Retreat was a day of empowerment, serenity, and community connection. Participants experienced a nurturing environment honoring the journeys of Black women—mothers, pregnant individuals, aspiring mothers, and grandmothers—while fostering sisterhood. This event also honored two birth advocates and featured poetry, yoga, guided meditation, storytelling and therapeutic art to promote self-expression and emotional healing. The Kids Creative Corner was a key feature of the retreat, which allowed mothers to relax while their children engaged in creative play.

To raise awareness about maternal health resources available in the community, this resource fair featured 15+ vendors, including mental health care and midwifery care. A therapist was on-site throughout the event to provide evaluations and connect clients to mental health services.

The summit featured keynote speakers, panels, and workshops on Black birth traditions, health equity, and solutions.

The Wild Women’s Wisdom Circle created space for Black women to tell their stories and experiences around childbirth. 

The two-day event was dedicated to mental health and family wellness, designed to empower families through movement, mindfulness, and meaningful conversations while fostering a supportive community. 

The Office of Zosimili Naa at Artsville in the Madisonville neighborhood hosted this gathering to create a space for Black women of African American and African immigrant descent to come together to reflect, heal, and celebrate their stories of resilience and joy. Specifically focused on maternal health, this work emphasized the importance of joy-centered healing, mental wellness, and diasporic connection for Black women across all stages of motherhood.

The event opened with a panel discussion facilitated by HRM Zosimli Naa Ife Bell. Panelists included Carol Tonge Mack, Ashley Gray, and Dr. Ana’Neicia Williams, who spoke candidly about the emotional, systemic, and health challenges that Black women face. Their dialogue highlighted how mental health, caregiving, advocacy, and leadership are deeply interconnected. Additionally, how centering joy and setting boundaries are essential forms of resilience.

The second part of the event was “Rhythm of Her Joy,” an intimate storytelling circle. Participants moved into small groups and engaged in guided conversations around legacy, rest, vision, and maternal mental wellness.

The second annual “Pause & Let’s Celebrate!” was a chance for attendees to come together to amplify Black voices, advocate for change, and celebrate the beauty and power of Black motherhood.