Council approves Black Maternal Health Week and backs U.N. recognition of trafficking/enslavement as a crime

Detroit City Council passed two symbolic resolutions during Tuesday’s session.

First, the council recognized April 11–17 as Black Maternal Health Week, honoring organizers and reaffirming a commitment to improved maternal-health outcomes for Black families. Council members who sponsored the resolution noted its purpose is to deepen local awareness and support community organizations working on maternal-health equity.

Second, the council approved a resolution affirming the United Nations General Assembly’s March 25 recognition that the trafficking and enslavement of Africans constitutes a grave crime against humanity and expressing support for reparative measures, including restitution, apology and changes to law and policy. Members discussed language and asked that the council send copies to federal representatives; sponsors said the language came from advocacy groups and reflected a global U.N. action passed March 25.

Both resolutions were moved to new business and approved during the formal session; waivers were attached to both items. Members said they would transmit copies to the mayor, relevant departments and, in the reparations case, to congressional offices.

Quote: "The Detroit City Council hereby recognizes April 11 through April 17 as Black Maternal Health Week in the city of Detroit," — passage text read into the record.

Context: Symbolic resolutions do not create new law but express the council's position and direct transmittal to officials and agencies named in the adopted language.