Here are ten extraordinary organizations dedicated to supporting and empowering Black moms through every stage of their parenting journey.
Becoming a mother is one of the most joyous and exciting (and nerve wracking) moments in your life. It’s a beautiful blessing, but it can also present unique challenges. You’ve got to navigate through morning sickness and what seems like a million decisions. What should you name your baby? What should you include in your birth plan? What should you eat during pregnancy?
Luckily, there are many wonderful organizations out there to support moms along their journey, and that goes for moms of color as well.
Read on as we highlight ten extraordinary organizations that are dedicated to supporting and empowering Black moms through every stage of their parenthood journey from pregnancy and beyond. From resources and education to advocacy and community building, these organizations play a vital role in ensuring that Black mamas and families receive the support they need.
Let’s take a look:
Mater Mea
Mater mea 一 Lain for “my mother “ 一 is a valuable resource Black mamas. It’s a resource for content but also provides a community. Launched in 2012 by Tomi Akitunde, this organization celebrates the diverse experiences of Black women and offers assistance during their transition into motherhood.
It’s not just about mamas. Mater Mea is on a mission to help mamas, families, and communities thrive.
Mama Glow
Mama Glow is founded by Latham Thomas after her own positive childbirth experience. It’s a platform that shares essential information for expectant mothers on several topics including:
- Yoga and mindfulness
- Lifestyle coaching
- Spirit and self-care
Mama Glow also provides doula training and empowers birth workers to navigate the medical system and advocate for their clients.
Glow Pilot mentors include Mark Hyman, MD, and Angela Le from Fifth Avenue Fertility + Wellness.
African American Homeschool Moms
This group offers support and resources for Black mamas who are homeschooling their children. African American Homeschool Moms connects homeschool mamas through Facebook and their website. Their community understands the unique challenges and joys of homeschooling.
Black Mothers Breastfeeding Association
With the goal of encouraging and supporting Black mamas in their breastfeeding journey, this association provides education, support groups, programs, and training. They are a wealth of information for mamas, families, and even healthcare providers. Their aim is to empower mamas who choose to breastfeed.
Black Women for Wellness
Originating as a group focused on Black infant health, Black Women for Wellness now covers a wide range of programs and events, from healthy cooking to policy work. They address reproductive justice, environmental justice, and health initiatives.
You can read about their news appearances here.
Brown Mamas
Brown Mamas focuses on supporting Black mothers, ultimately nurturing stronger families and communities. Their programs include meetups, SelfCare Saturdays, and healing circles.
Based out of Pittsburg, their programs and mentorship leave a national footprint with the mission to build a supportive village for all.
The Loveland Foundation
The Loveland Foundation was founded by Rachel Cargle and is committed to supporting communities of color, with a special emphasis on Black women and girls. Their Therapy Fund program has raised over $250,000, making therapy support accessible to Black women and girls.
National Black Doulas Association
The National Black Doulas Association (NBDA) connects Black birthing families with Black doulas across the nation. They aim to reduce the alarming rates of Black maternal mortality by offering comprehensive education and training through the NBDA Leadership Academy and their Doula Training Program.
Sista Midwife Productions
Sista Midwife Productions is a birth advocacy training and consulting agency, creating educational events for communities, birth workers, and organizations. They provide lectures, consultations, and personalized training to promote equitable care for childbearing families.
They also created a directory to help black mamas find a black to doula to support her during labor.
The National Association to Advance Black Birth (NAABB)
A nonprofit organization, NAABB is dedicated to enhancing the care of Black women, individuals, and infants. They have published the Black Birthing Bill of Rights as part of their commitment to improving maternal-infant health. They provide tools and resources to individual mothers, birth workers, policy makers, and institutions.
Let’s Celebrate These Organizations
As we celebrate these organizations, we recognize the importance of equity, justice, and community in the journey of motherhood. These organizations exemplify the strength of community and advocacy and the indomitable spirit of motherhood.
Do you know of other organizations that support Black moms and families? We’d love to hear about them!