November 17, 2023 Dear Attendee,
We are writing to you as the co-chairs of the PA Black Maternal Health Caucus, and it is our distinct pleasure to extend our warmest welcome to each and every one of you attending the "Once Upon a Preemie Black Maternal Health and Neonatal Equity Conference: Parents, Practitioners, Policies, and Solutions." This conference is a critical platform for healthcare professionals and perinatal workers, parent and community advocates, and policymakers to come together and address the pressing issue of health disparities affecting Black birthing and preemie families. This significant event, held in partnership with the Perinatal Advisory Council: Leadership, Advocacy, And Consultation (PAC/LAC), exemplifies a commitment to promoting equity and eliminating disparities in maternal health and neonatal care. We believe that your participation will contribute to our collective efforts to improve the lives of Black mothers, infants, and their families in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. The PA Black Maternal Health Caucus was established in 2023 with the steadfast goal of tackling the alarming trends of Black maternal mortality and morbidity that persist in our state. We are acutely aware of the urgent need to address these issues through strategic and intersectional legislation and policy initiatives. The caucus aims to provide a collaborative, representative, and action-oriented space for Pennsylvania legislators, advocates, and stakeholders to engage in discussions and take meaningful steps toward rectifying the disparities that disproportionately affect Black birthing people and infants. One of our most ambitious initiatives is the introduction, advancement, and ultimate passage of the Pennsylvania MOMNIBUS — a comprehensive legislative package that will make critical investments and policy changes to enhance maternal health outcomes throughout our state. We believe that through concerted efforts and the support of all those present at this conference, we can advance these critical policy changes and truly make a difference in the lives of Black families across Pennsylvania. As we embark on this transformative journey, we want to emphasize the importance of centering voices, lived experiences, and solutions from Black birthing and preemie families. We recognize that the wisdom and strength of these families are invaluable in shaping the policies and practices that will have a lasting impact. By coming together in solidarity, we can achieve tangible progress and create a future where all mothers and infants, regardless of race, income, or background, have equal access to high-quality healthcare and support. We extend our deepest gratitude to each one of you for your dedication to this cause. Your passion, expertise, and involvement are instrumental in our mission to eliminate health disparities and improve maternal and neonatal health outcomes for Black families. We look forward to the productive discussions, collaborations, and solutions that will emerge during this conference. Together, we can make a real difference and provide a brighter and healthier future for all Black birthing and preemie families in Pennsylvania. With warm regards and high hopes,
State Representative Morgan Cephas
State Representative Gina H. Curry
State Representative La'Tasha D. Mayes
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