Black Women's Health Imperative

Throwing it back to when our founder, Byllye Avery, stood firmly before the Senate, introduced by Joe Biden, to voice her disapproval of Clarence Thomas’ nomination. Representing the members of what was then the National Black Women’s Health Project—now the Black Women’s Health Imperative—Byllye has been a formidable force on the front lines of advocacy for Black women’s health.

It is the 34th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, a landmark civil rights law that has transformed the lives of millions by prohibiting discrimination against individuals with disabilities. This day honors the progress made toward inclusion, accessibility, and equality for all. Let’s continue to advocate for a society where everyone, regardless of ability, can live, work, and thrive without barriers. Learn more about the survey conducted by RDDC and NORD by visiting RDDC.org to read the full executive summary. The full report is coming soon.

Yesterday, our Senior Director of Reproductive Justice Initiatives, Zsanai Epps attended the Congressional Caucus to End the Youth Vaping Epidemic briefing. Opening remarks were given by Co-Chairs Reps. Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) and Celeste Maloy (R-UT), followed by panelists from Parents Against Vaping e-cigarettes, Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, American Academy of Pediatrics, and Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. They discussed the history, challenges, and necessary actions to address the public health crisis of youth e-cigarette use. "Through our MSK program, BWHI has welcomed 8 MSK Fellows who will, over the course of 12 months, develop leadership skills and experience in addressing tobacco-related health disparities among the Black community, particularly Black women, and develop innovative strategies to tackle these challenges." - Zsanai Epps To learn more about MSK initiatives, visit: https://lnkd.in/egRBFxnn

The Black Women’s Health Imperative acknowledges President Joe Biden’s difficult decision not to seek reelection and we thank him for his impactful service and commitment to women, which included elevating Black women to unprecedented heights in our nation's history. His nomination of Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson as the first Black woman on the Supreme Court and his selection of Kamala Harris as the first Black Vice President are milestones that have inspired many. As we look ahead, we remind every Black woman of the importance of exercising your right to vote. With so many critical issues that directly affect women—particularly Black women—appearing on the ballot this fall, it is crucial to understand where candidates stand on the issues that matter to you most. Please vote like your health depends on it. Thank you for your service and support, President Biden.

It’s still Fibroid Awareness Month. Let’s keep the conversation going. Dealing with the mental toll of fibroids can be challenging. It’s important to acknowledge the emotional impact they can have. Remember, it’s okay to seek support and take care of your mental health while managing your physical well-being. Let’s raise awareness and support each other in understanding and managing this health issue. For more of this conversation and resources visit http://fibroids.bwhi.org #FibroidAwareness #HealthIsWealth #blackwomenshealth

Here’s what happens when we start open conversations about health across generations, break down stigma, and empower with education. We’re thrilled to unveil the trailer for 'Me Period,' our groundbreaking documentary featuring Tabitha Brown, Sheryl Lee Ralph, their daughters, and everyday families as they explore menstruation and health discovery. We're fresh off winning the Audience Award for Best Feature Documentary at the Essence Film Festival! Next up is the Martha’s Vineyard African American Film Festival. Dive in, spread the word, and help amplify our movement at MePeriod.info. Let’s ensure this vital film reaches a global audience!

When Black women are paid less than their white counterparts, it impacts their finances today & financial futures. An economy that supports Black women is an economy that supports us all. #BlackWomensEqualPayDay

Excited to announce that we won the Audience Award for Best Feature Documentary at Essence Film Festival 💜 Special acknowledgment to our founder Byllye Avery and President Linda Goler Blount, MPH for their vision and to Lisa Cunningham for directing this powerful project produced by RADIANT3 and powered by P&G Studios! We would like to thank the Essence Film Festival for this incredible honor and the opportunity to highlight such an important topic. So many MVP’s! Shout out to our amazing talent and crew. Tara Hogan Charles thank you for believing in this project from day 1!! #meperiod #essencefilmfestival #documentary #blackwomenshealth

Thank you to NCBW Metro DC Chapter for having us at the Fit, Fabulous and Fearless Wellness Fair this past weekend! We had an amazing time connecting with the community and sharing more about our Change Your Lifestyle Change Your Life program that helps prevent type 2 Diabetes. You can learn more at bwhi.org/cyl2. Our wellness box giveaways and Dish Diva Recipes were a big hit. 🖤💪🏾✨ #FitFabulousFearless #NCBWDC #BWHI #WellnessFair #BlackHealthMatters #CommunityWellness #CYL2

July is Fibroid Awareness Month, a time to shine a light on a health issue that affects so many Black women. Fibroids can cause pain, heavy bleeding, and other serious symptoms. It’s crucial to get informed, seek proper care, and support each other in this journey. Let’s break the silence and advocate for better health together. 🖤 Thanks Dr. Charis Chambers, MD #FibroidAwarenessMonth #BlackWomenHealth #FibroidAwareness #WomensHealth #SupportAndEmpower