San Diego City Wire

The Board of Supervisors has approved $484,310 in state funding to improve health outcomes for African-American babies. This funding is part of the California Perinatal Equity Initiative, which aims to address issues such as low birth weight, premature births, and infant and maternal deaths among Black mothers and babies due to bias and racism in healthcare settings.

In San Diego County, the mortality rate for Black infants before their first birthday is five times higher than that of White infants. Additionally, Black infants are 50 percent more likely to be born prematurely. Statewide, Black women are over three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related causes compared to White women.

The County’s Perinatal Equity Initiative began in 2018 as an expansion of its Black Infant Health program. This program provides culturally appropriate support services and resources to African-American families. The initiative has funded a fatherhood program for new and expectant dads, implicit bias training for healthcare professionals, and the Black Legacy Now public awareness campaign.

A community advisory board with 200 members offers feedback and direction on program activities. Resources for current and future parents can be found at www.blacklegacynowsd.com, where individuals can also learn about their rights and advocate for Black women, babies, and families in San Diego.