Pregnant and postpartum Black women in the United States face two of the most serious public health challenges of the 21st century: (1) the maternal morbidity and mortality crisis, and (2) the compounded effects of multiple social and systemic factors. In a country with the highest maternal mortality rate among high-income nations, Black women are three times more likely to die during pregnancy or the postpartum period than White women. Historically and today, efforts to address Black maternal health have too often failed to meaningfully involve the communities most affected. Additionally, paternal health and partner involvement remain underrepresented in maternal and child health programs. Supporting the health of both parents during pregnancy and early parenthood through education, prevention, and care services can help reduce disparities and improve outcomes for Black families.

Guided by public health and community-engaged research principles, Morehouse School of Medicine’s Center for Maternal Health Equity will generate practical, evidence-based solutions to improve maternal and family health outcomes. The Center will collaborate closely with Black women, their families, and the community-based organizations that support them to better understand and address the maternal health challenges facing Georgia and beyond. Georgia is a key setting for this work, as it has one of the highest pregnancy-related mortality rates in the country. The state’s Maternal Mortality Review Committee has identified social, economic, and systemic factors as leading contributors to maternal deaths.

To address these challenges, the Center will bring together academic researchers, clinicians, and community partners to build a strong, collaborative research network across Georgia’s metropolitan and rural areas. Its efforts will include conducting rigorous, community-informed studies; mentoring future leaders in maternal health research; and working with public and private stakeholders to share findings and support effective solutions. Housed at Morehouse School of Medicine, a historically Black medical institution, the Center emphasizes meaningful collaboration across research teams and community organizations to promote learning and impact across all aspects of its work.