WHEREAS, Black Maternal Health Week is observed annually from April 11–17 to bring national attention to the maternal health crisis disproportionately affecting Black women, birthing people, and families; and

WHEREAS, in the United States, Black women are three to four times more likely to die from pregnancy related causes than white women, and in the Commonwealth of Virginia, Black mothers continue to face significantly higher rates of maternal morbidity and mortality, regardless of income, education, or access to prenatal care; and

WHEREAS, these disparities are rooted in a complex history of systemic inequities, including unequal access to quality healthcare, implicit bias in medical settings, social and economic barriers, and the cumulative effects of racism on physical and mental health; and

WHEREAS, the Commonwealth of Virginia recognizes that improving maternal health outcomes requires a comprehensive approach that includes expanding access to culturally competent care, strengthening community based support, investing in maternal mental health resources, and ensuring that all Virginians receive respectful, evidence based treatment throughout pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum; and

WHEREAS, Black Maternal Health Week uplifts the voices, experiences, and leadership of Black mothers, advocates, doulas, midwives, healthcare professionals, and community organizations working tirelessly to eliminate preventable maternal deaths and advance reproductive justice; and

WHEREAS, the Commonwealth affirms its commitment to reducing maternal health disparities through ongoing initiatives and promoting policies that advance equity and dignity in maternal care;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Abigail D. Spanberger, do hereby recognize April 11–17, 2026, as BLACK MATERNAL HEALTH WEEK in the COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, and I call this observance to the attention of all our citizens