According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Black women in the United States are 2.7 times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes compared to the national average. The maternal mortality rate in the U.S. is among the highest of any high-income country. While the overall maternal mortality rate has decreased since the height of the COVID-19 Pandemic, the rate of maternal mortality among Black women is significantly higher compared to others.  Every maternal death is a tragedy, and we must take action to address maternal deaths and this disparity in health outcomes.
 
We will be introducing a resolution to designate the week of April 11-17, 2026, as the fourth annual "Black Maternal Health Week" in order to raise awareness about the ongoing maternal health crisis in both Pennsylvania and the United States. This week aims to highlight the urgent need to reduce maternal mortality and morbidity, particularly among Black women.
 
Given the severity of the issue, it is crucial to continue drawing attention to this life-threatening crisis. We urge you to join us in recognizing April 11-17, 2026, as the fourth annual "Black Maternal Health Week" to help shed light on this critical matter.