Special Feature // Black Maternal Health Week// EEW Magazine Online

New federal data reveals the unfortunate truth for Black mothers across the country. As the national maternal mortality rate rose during the pandemic, Black mothers are now three to four times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes.

Olympic track star, Allyson Felix, who holds the distinct honor of earning the most Olympic medals of any U.S. track and field athlete in history, is fighting for Black maternal health by highlighting disparities and solutions in the new documentary she executive produced, “Birthing Justice.”

Over 50 cities will broadcast the moving documentary on select PBS stations during Black Maternal Health Week (April 10-17) to help educator viewers and introduce them to stories of courage, resilience and joy.

The documentary goes behind the statistics and beyond the grief to amplify how Black women are taking control of their lives and transforming birth experiences for generations to come.

"Birthing Justice is the film I wish I had before I started a family," said Felix, co-founder and president of the lifestyle brand, Saysh.

"It takes an in-depth look at the horrifying statistics of giving birth for Black women and unpacks the complexities of changing these outcomes. It was important for me to share my story alongside other powerful accounts so that my daughter and her generation won't face these same issues,” she added.

Felix knows well the risks many Black women are met with during pregnancy. The mom of one was diagnosed at 32-weeks pregnant with severe preeclampsia—a potentially life-threatening, pregnancy-related complication. Given her exceptional level of fitness and extensive training, she was surprised to learn during a prenatal visit that she had elevated levels of protein in her urine and had developed high blood pressure. Her doctor admitted her into the hospital for further monitoring and testing. She was then sent for an emergency C-section. Her daughter, Camryn, was born at 3 pounds, 7 ounces and had to spend her first month of life in the neonatal intensive care unit. Thankfully, both mom and daughter are thriving.

Felix knows that her doctor’s fast actions may have saved her life. Therefore, she shares her story and helps educate pregnant and postpartum women about the urgent warning signs of pregnancy-related complications and the importance of self-advocacy.

"Birthing Justice" is produced by Women in the Room Productions, a comprehensive media company that drives social impact for women and people of color through storytelling and community. Support for the film was provided by the W. K. Kellogg Foundation, Missouri Foundation for Health, Meadow Fund, Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and others.