Last week, we marked a powerful and inspiring milestone as we celebrated the community launch of the NAUWU community voices report.
We did this alongside an incredible group of Black mamas, third-sector organisations, and NHS Lothian. This gathering was more than just an event—it was a testament to the strength of our community, the urgency of our mission, and the collective action needed to achieve true equity in Black maternal healthcare.
As we shared meals and personal stories, we found inspiration in our shared experiences and a renewed drive to push forward. A special thank you to our guests of honour, Tinuke and Clo from FiveXMore– the UK’s leading organisation advancing Black maternal health. They inspired us with their inception story and broke down the six critical steps in self-advocacy. Their words reminded us of the power we hold in shaping our own narratives and demanding better outcomes for Black mothers.
Key Takeaways from Our Launch:
✅ Self-advocacy is empowerment – Trusting our bodies and confidently communicating our concerns and expectations is a fundamental right, not a privilege. We must advocate for ourselves and each other without fear.
✅ Systemic change requires inside-outside collaboration – Lasting change comes from working both within our communities and within the system itself. Leveraging networks of community members and system “insiders” is crucial for sustained progress.
✅ Consistency and collaboration matter – Building real partnerships within our communities and with genuine allies fosters greater impact. Sustainable change doesn’t happen in silos—it requires smart, ongoing cooperation.
✅ Funding is non-negotiable – The phrase “Nothing about us without funds” is a call to action. Long-term funding is essential to sustain the efforts, expertise, and progress of Black maternal health initiatives.
✅ Fathers and men are essential allies – Black maternity equity is not just a women’s issue; men and fathers play a crucial role. Inclusion in both action and language strengthens our movement and broadens support.
✅ Celebrate progress loudly – Sharing wins, documenting milestones, and seeking feedback keeps momentum alive. Positive stories and hope sustain the energy of our community and inspire continued advocacy.
This event was a reminder that we are not alone in this fight. Change is possible when we come together, uplift each other, and demand better for Black mothers and families.
Join us as we continue this journey toward Black maternity equity. Stay engaged, keep advocating, and let’s create lasting impact—together.