Racial Disparities in Maternal Health and Reproductive Justice
Join us for a screening of the powerful PBS documentary “When the Bough Breaks” (28 minutes), followed by a panel discussion led by Sistering CU. In the film, researchers explain how the chronic stress of racism impacts birth outcomes, as well as how civic engagement and racial justice can improve health outcomes. After assessing the issues that mothers of color face today, panelists will identify how we can offer better support—because every mother counts.
Presented in partnership with Sistering CU. Part of the Growing Together parenting series.
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About the movie: Why do infant mortality rates among African Americans remain more than twice as high as white Americans? Although birth outcomes are generally better for those with higher education and income, Black women with college degrees are still more likely to give birth prematurely than white women who drop out of high school. Researchers are circling in on a provocative explanation: the chronic stress of racism can become embedded in the body, taking a heavy toll on African American families and their children even before they leave the womb. Part of the Unnatural Causes PBS series.
About Sistering CU: Sistering CU offers free support to families with a new baby, including home visits. “Sistering CU believes it takes a village not only to raise children but also to empower resilient parents. Our goal is to spread community awareness about postpartum maternal health and partner with maternity care providers in Champaign County to empower new families through community education, volunteer-led home visits, and peer group support. We are an extra pair of hands, a listening ear, and a sounding board—a caring community—many parents need once a little one comes home. Sistering CU offers this support at no cost to families with a new baby.” Sign up to become a volunteer at sisteringcu@gmail.com or call 765-665-6739. Sisteringcu.org
AGE GROUP: | Adults |
EVENT TYPE: | Presentation |
TAGS: | SisteringCU | PBS | Growing Together parenting series |
Our beautiful, state-of-the-art Main Library opened on January 6, 2008. You’ll find a wide variety of books, movies, and music, as well as free events for all ages. Looking for tech options? We offer free Wifi, dozens of public computers with internet access, and public meeting rooms.