The Center for Maternal and Family Health convened a community-centered dialogue focused on the material and holistic needs of pregnant people in Baltimore City, spanning preconception through postpartum experiences. Hosted in partnership with Oxfam and its collaboration with A New Era for Black Women, the gathering created space to examine Black women’s lived experiences across healthcare access and literacy, childcare, labor equity, emotional well-being, and the cultural pressures often placed on Black matriarchs. Led by Professor Megan Simmons, MPA/JD, the conversation elevated local insight as a critical driver of research-informed solutions and policy-relevant change. Through shared dialogue, community engagement, and collective reflection, the event underscored the importance of translating lived experience into action that improves quality of life and supports healthier outcomes for families in Baltimore.
