Hello Readers,
This past Sunday, we celebrated Mother's Day, a day dedicated to honoring and appreciating the mothers and mother figures in our lives. While this day is typically associated with flowers, cards, and brunches, it also provides an opportunity for us to reflect on the important role that mothers play in shaping our world.
As we reflect on the meaning of Mother's Day, it's important to consider how we can ensure that all mothers are valued and supported, regardless of their race, ethnicity, or socioeconomic status. This is where diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) come into play.
DEI is about creating a world where everyone feels valued, respected, and included, regardless of their background or identity. When it comes to motherhood, DEI means recognizing that mothers face unique challenges based on their identity. For example, Black mothers in the United States are three to four times more likely to die from pregnancy-related complications than white mothers, a statistic that highlights the urgent need for addressing racial disparities in maternal health. Similarly, immigrant mothers may face language barriers and other challenges when accessing healthcare and other services.
To create a more equitable world for mothers, we must work to address these systemic inequities and create policies and practices that support all mothers. This means advocating for policies that ensure access to high-quality healthcare for all mothers, regardless of their race or immigration status. It means promoting family-friendly workplace policies that allow mothers to balance their work and family responsibilities. And it means working to dismantle the structures of racism and bias that perpetuate inequities in maternal health outcomes.
As we celebrate Mother's Day, let's also commit to creating a world where all mothers feel valued, supported, and empowered to thrive. By working towards greater DEI in our communities and institutions, we can create a world where every mother can raise her child with the love and support she deserves.
Sincerely,
Jenora Ledbetter
CEO/Founder