VCU screening of documentary “Birthing Justice” aims to highlight health disparities facing Black mothers
The documentary was selected to mark the beginning of Black Maternal Health Week, an effort to advance health equity.
April 06, 2023
The screening of "Birthing Justice" is happening on April 11, 2023. (Office of Health Equity)
By Jayla Parker
The Virginia Commonwealth University Office of Health Equity, in collaboration with Birth in Color RVA and the VCU School of Medicine Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion, will host a film screening of “Birthing Justice” and a panel discussion on Tuesday, April 11th.
The documentary was chosen to kick off Black Maternal Health Week, an observance that aims to bring awareness to disparities in maternal health care for Black women.
“We wanted to support the work of our partner, Birth in Color, in their efforts during Black Maternal Health Week,” said Logan Vetrovec, director of education and research in the Office of Health Equity. “In Virginia, Black women are three times more likely to die than white women during childbirth or due to pregnancy-related causes. Birthing Justice exposes this crisis and advocates for best practices to enhance birthing equity for all women, especially Black women.”
Birthing Justice not only brings awareness, but it also celebrates the efforts many have made to fix problems in the United States’ medical system.
An organization trying to help mothers locally is Birth in Color RVA; the Richmond-based non-profit is the host of this event sponsored by the Office of Health Equity. The group aims to create a safe place for all pregnant people, by providing services to ensure a smooth journey to parenthood.
“We want the community to know that we are here and have plenty of resources to provide expecting new parents such as doula services, support groups and group classes,” said Sequoi Phipps-Hawkins, director of communications & marketing for Birth in Color RVA. “We're glad to be working with VCU's Office of Health and Equity for this screening. Black Maternal Health Week is extremely important to us and highlighting the maternal health disparities in our communities is a top priority.”
Phipps-Hawkins says Birth in Color RVA also supports clients on Medicaid and those who are low-income at free or low cost for services.
Event organizers highlight how this documentary and panel discussion, with team members from the VCU Health Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, will bring attention to the racial disparities in our maternity care systems and equip all attendees with the tools to raise awareness and enhance the care that is provided. It will also give attendees the opportunity to ask questions and learn about ways to get involved with making a change.
This event is free and open to the public, but you must register to attend. The screening is taking place April 11th from 6 – 9 p.m. at the Henrico Theatre, 305 E. Nine Mile Road, Highland Springs.
Watch the trailer of “Birthing Justice”
