House Resolution No. by Representative Carpenter designates April 11-17, 2025, as Black Maternal Health Week in Louisiana. This resolution highlights the significant disparities in maternal health outcomes, particularly for black women, who are disproportionately affected by preventable maternal deaths. In Louisiana, black mothers are four times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes compared to their white counterparts, a situation exacerbated by factors such as systemic bias, socioeconomic challenges, and limited access to quality healthcare. The resolution emphasizes the importance of addressing these disparities and improving health outcomes for all women during pregnancy and childbirth.

The resolution also recognizes the efforts of organizations like Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., which has launched initiatives such as Project CRADLE Care to raise awareness and promote activism around black maternal health. By designating this week, the House of Representatives encourages all Louisianians to support initiatives aimed at enhancing maternal healthcare, particularly for black mothers, thereby fostering healthier communities and improving overall maternal and infant health outcomes in the state.