Numerous people walk to bring attention to Black maternal mortality

Rochester, New York – During Black Maternal Health Week, the inaugural Black Maternal Health Walkathon took place in downtown Rochester, bringing together the Healthy Baby Network, several advocates, and members of the Black Rochester Nurses Association.

Organizers answered questions and raised awareness of the Black maternal mortality rate epidemic, which is impacting a lot of families in the area, throughout the walk.

The maternal death rate in the Finger Lakes region is sixty percent greater than the state of New York’s rate, according to data from the Healthy Baby Network.

Additionally, the research reveals that Black women have a three times higher risk of dying from problems related to pregnancy than do White women.

For these reasons, Sherita Zullock, Executive Director of Healthy Baby Network, expressed her excitement about the turnout for Saturday’s Walkathon and her determination to keep going until the issue is resolved.

According to Zullock, the issue of maternal mortality is one of justice as well as one that women in Western New York can take on by demanding legislative changes that will advance the cause for the coming generations. These women may do this by showing fortitude and resiliency.

“We would love to invite everyone to get involved in this issue. As we said earlier, this is a justice issue. This is an equity issue for our community, and mothers should not be afraid that having babies will cause them to die,” Zullock said.

Local activists were present at the event, including Rochester Mayor Malik Evans.

Healthy Baby Network organizers stated their commitment to assisting all parents in obtaining the knowledge necessary to conceive a healthy child.