Memorial Medical Center hosts 3rd annual UPLIFTING Black Maternal Health

Event to shine light on maternal health disparities

Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center's P3 Center will host its third annual UPLIFTING Black Maternal Health from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday, April 16, at the Niagara Falls Train Station, 825 Depot Ave. Organizers said the event aims to “raise awareness about the critical maternal health disparities that disproportionately affect Black mothers.”

The free event is open to the public and will feature Niagara Falls native and founding Executive Director of Open Buffalo Franchelle Parker as its keynote speaker. The press release noted, “Parker has advocated for two decades, fighting against racism, poverty and climate change, empowering community leaders to make enduring changes.

“Parker began her advocacy as a student organizer at Buffalo State University, fighting to repeal mandatory minimum drug sentencing laws. She advanced to manage communication, political and community outreach efforts at 1199SEIU United Healthcare Workers East, earning significant legislative victories and serving on various boards, including the Western New York Area Labor Federation. Parker's numerous accolades include the New York State Labor Award and recognition as a 2023 Buffalo Black Achiever, underlining her extensive impact in advocacy and community leadership.”

NFMMC stated, “Attendees can expect a range of activities designed to educate and inspire, including panel discussions, workshops on maternal health, and a special tribute to Fatima Mathews, keynote speaker from last year’s event, who passed away a few months ago.

“The event aims to raise awareness about the alarming disparities in maternal health outcomes, particularly for Black, non-Hispanic women. According to a recent New York State Department of Health report, the mortality ratio for these women is five times that of their white, non-Hispanic counterparts. Additionally, the 2023 New York State Maternal Mortality and Morbidity Advisory Council Report highlights that Black individuals are four times more likely to die during pregnancy or childbirth than white individuals.

“The UPLIFTING Black Maternal Health event is part of the national Black Maternal Health Week, sponsored by The Black Mamas Matter Alliance during National Minority Health Month in April. The week aims to amplify the voices of Black mothers and advocate for reproductive and birth justice, aligning with our ongoing commitment to address these vital issues.”

To register for the event, contact Eileen Kineke at 716-343-0817 or [email protected].