In a significant move towards addressing racial disparities in maternal health, the Douglas County Board of Commissioners convened on September 30, 2025, to declare October as Black Maternal Health Month. The meeting highlighted the urgent need for equitable healthcare access for women of color, particularly Black women, who face alarming statistics regarding maternal health outcomes.

Under the soft glow of city hall lights, the commissioners discussed the stark reality that Black women are three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes compared to their white counterparts. This sobering statistic underscores a broader issue of systemic inequities that have long plagued the healthcare system. The board emphasized that pregnancy and childbirth should be safe for all Americans, yet the disparities faced by Black women reveal a troubling truth about the state of maternal health in the country.

The resolution, championed by Commissioner Rogers and supported by local organizations like I Be Black, aims to raise awareness and foster meaningful conversations about these critical issues. The board acknowledged that multiple factors contribute to these disparities, including variations in healthcare quality, chronic health conditions, and the pervasive effects of structural racism and implicit bias.

In addition to raising awareness, the commissioners called for a comprehensive approach to improve Black women's maternal health. This includes enhancing access to quality care, providing economic security, and implementing policy changes that promote systemic improvements. The CDC's national "Lehi Her" campaign was also highlighted as a vital initiative aimed at educating both healthcare providers and patients about urgent maternal warning signs.

As the meeting concluded, Commissioner Fahey expressed gratitude for the efforts of those advocating for this long-neglected public health issue. The board's resolution not only marks a commitment to addressing these disparities but also invites the community to engage in solutions that can lead to better health outcomes for Black women and infants in Douglas County. The call to action is clear: it is time to amplify voices, recognize the need for urgent solutions, and work towards a future where all women can feel safe and supported throughout their pregnancy journeys.