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  • Chris Paul to Keynote Morehouse Commencement, Receive Doctorate

    Get ready, Morehouse College! The esteemed institution has announced that NBA legend Chris Paul will be the keynote speaker for its 142nd Commencement exercises on Sunday, May 17, 2026. The ceremony, held on the Century Campus in Atlanta, will not only feature Paul’s inspiring words but also see him honored with an honorary doctorate of humane letters.

    A Speaker Who Embodies Morehouse Values

    The choice of Chris Paul as a commencement speaker is particularly fitting for Morehouse’s Class of 2026. His life story beautifully intertwines sports, leadership, business acumen, philanthropy, and a deep pride in Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Beyond his legendary status as one of basketball’s greatest point guards, Paul has become a prominent advocate for HBCUs, championing Black college athletes and creating opportunities in sports, entertainment, media, and business.

    This announcement comes as part of a larger commencement celebration that will also recognize Chris Womack, chairman, president, and CEO of Southern Company, and the retiring Dean of the Martin Luther King Jr. International Chapel, Rev. Dr. Lawrence Edward Carter Sr. Together, these honorees exemplify Morehouse’s core values of service, leadership, community impact, and enduring legacy.

    Paul’s Deep HBCU Connection

    What makes this moment even more special is Paul’s personal connection to the HBCU experience. Having attended Wake Forest University and later completing his degree at Winston-Salem State University, he understands firsthand the unique journey and significance of an HBCU education. This isn’t just a celebrity visit; it’s an HBCU graduate speaking to future leaders who are part of a long tradition of excellence.

    HBCU commencement speakers often carry profound symbolic weight. Students aren’t just looking for career advice; they seek inspiration that speaks to their identity, history, and future responsibilities. Paul’s career, marked by discipline, longevity, advocacy, and a commitment to uplifting others, provides a rich wellspring of lessons applicable far beyond the basketball court.

    Leadership On and Off the Court

    Paul’s influence extends far beyond his impressive basketball statistics, which include being named to the NBA’s 75th Anniversary Team and being the first player to achieve 20,000 career points and 10,000 assists. His off-court endeavors, particularly through the Chris Paul Family Foundation, have significantly supported education, youth development, and community initiatives, with a special focus on HBCUs.

    He has actively worked to increase the visibility of HBCU basketball programs through initiatives like the Chris Paul HBCU Classic, providing a crucial platform for athletes who often compete with less media attention. Furthermore, his engagement with accredited HBCU programs like North Carolina A&T State University’s Business of Entertainment, Media and Sports class demonstrates a commitment to educating students about the broader industries surrounding athletics.

    A Meaningful Honor and a Powerful Message

    The honorary doctorate of humane letters further solidifies Paul’s impact beyond sports, placing him among esteemed leaders recognized for their public service. This honor, alongside the recognition of Chris Womack (one of the few Black CEOs of a Fortune 500 company) and Rev. Dr. Lawrence Edward Carter Sr., underscores the ceremony’s theme of diverse leadership across business, faith, community, and education.

    For the Morehouse Class of 2026, stepping into a rapidly changing world, Paul’s message of preparation, poise, and leadership under pressure will resonate deeply. His presence on the Morehouse stage reinforces the college’s enduring mission to cultivate leaders who are prepared to serve and make a significant impact, carrying forward a legacy that has shaped the nation.

    What message do you hope Chris Paul will share with the Morehouse graduates? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!

  • Marshawn Lynch & Too $hort Celebrate 100 Years of Game

    When two Bay Area natives and Tauruses come together, you know a legendary celebration is bound to happen! Marshawn Lynch and Too $hort recently joined forces for a joint birthday bash, celebrating Too $hort’s 60th and Lynch’s 40th. The theme? ‘100 Years Worth of Game,’ perfectly capturing the combined wisdom and influence of these two icons.

    A Star-Studded Celebration

    The event, held at Delilah, was packed with a who’s who of entertainment and sports figures. Attendees included Mike Epps, Bill Bellamy, Scarface, Raphael Saadiq, Gary Payton, Richie Rich, P-Lo, Goapele, and Mistah F.A.B., all coming out to honor $hort and Marshawn. The energy was palpable as friends and collaborators gathered to celebrate these two influential figures.

    The night was filled with incredible performances and memorable moments. Too $hort himself took the stage, performing a set of his classic hits. He even brought out fellow legend Scarface for an impromptu rendition of ‘Mind Playing Tricks On Me,’ much to the delight of the crowd.

    Music, Culture, and Community

    Adding to the musical excitement, Too $hort previewed an upcoming collaboration featuring Tyga, E-40, and Lil Jon. The party also featured a live band and freestyle jam sessions, keeping the high-energy atmosphere going throughout the night. Even Babyface’s longtime music director was on hand to keep the vibes immaculate.

    Beyond the music, the celebration was a true blend of culture and community. Standout moments included a ‘Born to Mack’-inspired Cadillac installation and a Playboy-hosted cigar lounge featuring premium Kingmakers cigars and Playboy Bunnies. It was a night that truly embodied the ‘100 Years Worth of Game’ theme.

    A Celebration of Bay Area Icons

    Marshawn Lynch, known for his electrifying NFL career, and Too $hort, a pioneer of West Coast hip-hop, represent the best of Bay Area culture. Their joint celebration highlighted not only their individual achievements but also their shared impact on music, sports, and community.

    • Joint birthday celebration for Marshawn Lynch (40th) and Too $hort (60th)
    • Theme: ‘100 Years Worth of Game’
    • Star-studded guest list including Mike Epps, Scarface, and Gary Payton
    • Performances by Too $hort and Scarface
    • Preview of upcoming Too $hort collaboration
    • Unique cultural elements like a Cadillac installation and Playboy cigar lounge

    What’s your favorite Too $hort or Marshawn Lynch moment? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

  • Spring Events: Celebrate Black Culture Nationwide

    The weather is warming up, and so is the social calendar! Spring is the perfect season to get out and experience the richness of Black culture across the nation. Whether you’re a foodie, a bookworm, a wellness enthusiast, or a lover of live music, there’s an event calling your name. Many of these gatherings offer affordable or even free options, making it easier than ever to connect with community and enjoy the season without breaking the bank.

    A Taste of Spring: Food, Wine & Coffee

    For the wine connoisseurs, the Fine Wine Series is hosting a delightful rosé and riesling event in Brooklyn. If you’re more of a coffee lover, the Black Girl Vitamins Coffee Pop-Up Tour is hitting major cities like Chicago, Texas, Detroit, Atlanta, and North Carolina, partnering with Black-owned coffee shops. And don’t miss Keith Lee’s Familee Day, an all-day event celebrating food, family, music, and games with special guests like Kirk Franklin and Andra Day.

    Literary & Creative Connections

    Missed Book Con? Black Writer’s Weekend is expanding to Newark, New Jersey, and later Atlanta, Georgia, featuring storytellers like Jess Hillarious and Ashley Hobbs. The creative homecoming conference, Culture Con, is launching a multi-city tour with coffee-themed meetups designed for deeper connection. For content creators, the Black Girls In Media Lights Camera Influence Summit aims to bring together creators in the South to help each other level up.

    Music, Love, and Culture on Tour

    Gospel music’s favorite couple, David and Tamela Mann, are hitting the road with their Love & Relationship Tour, offering nights of music and intimate conversation in cities like Newark, Baltimore, and Philadelphia. For a unique musical experience, Orchestra Noir is transforming hip-hop and R&B hits into classical arrangements on their tour, with stops in Newark, D.C., and New Orleans. Baltimore’s AFRAM festival is offering a star-studded lineup including Tamia, SWV, Normani, Charlie Wilson, Mario, and The Lox for FREE!

    Wellness, Community & Empowerment

    Prioritize your well-being at the #L2LMixer: It’s YOU Season Wellness Event in Nashville, Tennessee, hosted by Brittney Oliver’s Lemons 2 Lemonade. This event features music, matcha, mental health activities, sound baths, and fireside chats. For those seeking connection and celebration, the HUE Affair expo is back, showcasing Black-owned brands, and the King and Queen of Reality Tour brings Carlos King and Nene Leakes together for a night of wit and humor.

    Theater and Community Causes

    Theater lovers can experience a reimagined production of Ntozake Shange’s ‘for colored girls who have considered suicide / when the rainbow is enuf’ in Newark, New Jersey. For a good cause, join The Black and Missing Foundation Inc. 5K Run/Walk to support the fight for vanished loved ones. And wrap up spring with the ultimate day party at Queens’ Citi Field for the Dear Summer Festival, featuring DJs, food vendors, and souvenirs.

    Which of these spring events are you most excited to attend? Let us know in the comments below, and share your own favorite local spring happenings!

  • Atlanta Summit to Boost Small Businesses

    Get ready, Atlanta entrepreneurs! A fantastic opportunity is on the horizon to help your small business thrive. U.S. Representative Nikema Williams (D-GA) is teaming up with Airbnb and the Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs (RICE) to host the “Hustle & Grow” Small Business Summit.

    Empowering Local Businesses

    Scheduled for Friday, May 29th, this summit aims to provide invaluable resources and insights for entrepreneurs looking to scale their operations. It’s all about equipping local businesses with the tools they need to succeed, especially with major events like the FIFA World Cup matches on the horizon for Atlanta in June and July.

    Rep. Williams and Airbnb want to connect directly with home and business owners, offering guidance as the city prepares for an influx of visitors. The goal is to inspire entrepreneurs in her “Fighting Fifth District” by addressing their unique struggles and aspirations head-on.

    Resources, Scholarships, and Opportunities

    The “Hustle & Grow” summit will be hosted at the Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs (RICE), a vibrant hub for Atlanta’s entrepreneurial scene. Expected attendees include RICE’s executive leadership, like Vice President of Marketing, Communications and Partnerships, Quintin Bostic Ph.D., alongside Rep. Williams.

    Adding to the excitement, the event will feature the bestowal of a RICE scholarship award, presented by Wells Fargo. This scholarship is designed to help one lucky recipient take their professional ambitions to the next level.

    Capitalizing on the World Cup Buzz

    Airbnb is also keen to help homeowners capitalize on the increased demand for housing during the World Cup. They aim to empower homeowners to develop their rental side hustles and understand the financial potential surrounding the tournament before the games kick off.

    Ultimately, the “Hustle & Grow” Small Business Summit is all about providing support, empowerment, and the essential tools needed for Atlanta’s entrepreneurs and homeowners to reach new heights. It’s a fantastic initiative designed to help the local community flourish.

    Are you an Atlanta-based entrepreneur or homeowner? Will you be attending the “Hustle & Grow” Summit? Register via Eventbrite and share your excitement in the comments below!

  • Dance Theatre of Harlem Honors Fatima Robinson

    The annual Dance Theatre of Harlem Vision Gala, held on April 17th at the Performance New York City Center, was more than just a fundraising event; it was a vibrant celebration of artistic legacy and visionary leadership. The evening honored two influential figures, choreographer Fatima Robinson and BET CEO Scott Mills, while raising crucial funds for community, arts, and health initiatives.

    With over $1.3 million raised, the gala successfully supported the organization’s mission, coinciding with the opening of Dance Theatre of Harlem’s New York season. The event flowed seamlessly from the Performance NYC Center to the Ziegfeld Ballroom, creating a dynamic and engaging experience for all attendees.

    Fatima Robinson Honored with Arthur Mitchell Vision Award

    The highlight of the evening was the presentation of the Arthur Mitchell Vision Award to Fatima Robinson. This prestigious honor celebrates artists who have made a lasting impact on the arts, embodying the bold and trailblazing spirit of Dance Theatre of Harlem’s co-founder, Arthur Mitchell.

    Rosie Perez opened the tribute to Robinson, praising her as a creative force who has reshaped hip-hop and visual culture, influencing generations of artists. Robinson’s extensive career includes work on major films like ‘The Color Purple’ (2023), global tours such as Beyoncé’s Renaissance Tour, and high-profile productions like the Grammy Awards and Beyoncé’s 2022 Oscars performance. Her three Emmy nominations underscore her significant contributions to the entertainment industry.

    A Performance Reflecting Robinson’s Influence

    In a unique tribute, Artistic Director Robert Garland presented an original ballet piece. Danced to music by icons like Aaliyah and Michael Jackson—artists whose work Robinson helped shape—the performance masterfully blended classical ballet with contemporary culture, creating a piece that felt both fresh and deeply personal, a true reflection of Robinson’s artistic fingerprint.

    When Kenny Leon presented Robinson with the award, her acceptance speech focused on the importance of trusting one’s inner voice, earning her a standing ovation. The evening also celebrated BET CEO Scott Mills, who received the Virtuoso Award for his contributions to Black storytelling in television, presented by Stephen Hill and joined by Chanté Moore.

    A Star-Studded Evening

    The gala attracted a constellation of creative talent, with notable attendees including Misty Copeland, fresh off her Oscars performance, Jordan Cooper, Adrienne Warren, Mickalene Thomas, Abby Phillip, and Bevy Smith. The Host Committee itself represented a broad spectrum of influence across art, media, and culture.

    As the formal program concluded, DJ D-Nice transformed the ballroom into a vibrant dance floor, capping off an evening that successfully honored artistic legacies while pulsating with the energy of future innovation. The Vision Gala continues to be a highly anticipated event, celebrated not only for its glamour but for its vital purpose in supporting the arts.

    What are your favorite works choreographed or directed by Fatima Robinson? Share your thoughts on the importance of honoring artistic visionaries like her in the comments below!

  • ATL’s Sundresses & Seersuckers: Fashion, Philanthropy, and Black Joy

    Atlanta knows how to blend style with substance, and the 2026 Sundresses & Seersuckers event was a perfect example! This beloved cultural tradition, usually marking the unofficial start of summer, transformed into a springtime spectacular filled with Southern sophistication, fashion-forward flair, and a whole lot of heart. It’s more than just a party; it’s a celebration of community, connection, and making a real impact.

    A Weekend of Celebration and Service

    Organized by the Delta Mu Mu Chapter of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., Sundresses & Seersuckers has evolved into a four-day experience. It’s a carefully curated weekend that goes way beyond just a day party, focusing on sharp suits, flowing sundresses, and fostering Black joy. Attendees traveled from all over the country to be part of this unique event, which directly supports the Commitment to Excellence 501(c)(3) organization.

    Since 2009, Commitment to Excellence has awarded over $700,000 in scholarships to young Black men, making this event a powerful engine for opportunity and advancement. The weekend kicked off with a golf outing and a social gathering, followed by a high-energy Friday ‘Prequel’ with multiple music rooms offering diverse vibes. Saturday brought a focus on wellness with a morning bootcamp and insightful panel discussions before the main event took over the Home Depot Backyard.

    More Than Just a Celebrity Event

    The flagship experience delivered everything attendees have come to expect: a stunning display of crisp seersucker, elegant summer silhouettes, curated lounges, and vibrant showcases of Black-owned beverage brands. But the organizers are quick to emphasize that the true heart of Sundresses & Seersuckers lies beyond the celebrity sightings and the aesthetics. It’s about the people and the impact.

    “This event is about the people. It’s not about a national recording artist. It’s about Sundresses & Seersuckers, the patrons and our sponsors, and most importantly, those that we’re able to impact.” — Larry Rasberry, S&S Co-Chair

    This sentiment was echoed by attendees like news producer Jason Keith Ingram, who described the weekend as a place where “Black people are having a great time.” He even compared the lineup to the early days of ESSENCE Fest, highlighting the authentic sense of Black joy that takes center stage.

    Community, Culture, and Commerce

    Justin Valentine, who leads sponsorships and marketing for the event, shared that success means seeing thousands of people enjoy themselves while raising crucial funds for scholarships and mentoring programs. Despite a schedule shift due to global sporting events, the 2026 edition saw strong attendance and sold-out moments, proving its significant influence on Atlanta.

    The event’s impact extends into the local economy, contributing significantly to Atlanta’s downtown corridor. Valentine described the powerful feeling of looking out over the crowd of over 15,000 individuals celebrating together. He believes the unique magic of S&S comes from a blend of Atlanta’s energy, the organization’s dedication, and its deep cultural roots.

    The Lasting Legacy of Impact

    At its core, Sundresses & Seersuckers is all about making a difference. Proceeds from the weekend continue to fuel mentorship initiatives, scholarships, and leadership development through the Black Rhinos program. Every ticket purchased, every toast made, and every stylish outfit contributes to a larger mission of empowerment and opportunity.

    This powerful balance of celebration and service is what truly sets this well-dressed weekend apart. Its legacy is built on the doors it opens and the futures it helps shape. It’s a testament to how fashion, fun, and philanthropy can come together to create something truly special.

    Will you be attending the next Sundresses & Seersuckers event? What aspects of the weekend appeal to you the most? Let us know in the comments!

  • ‘Boys 4 Life’ Tour Ignites ATL with Y2K Nostalgia

    If you lived through the early 2000s, the “Boys 4 Life” Tour stop in Atlanta felt like stepping into a time machine! Complete with baby tees, throwback jerseys, and an electrifying lineup, the tour brought back the iconic Y2K energy that defined a generation. Featuring performances from B2K, Bow Wow, Amerie, Pretty Ricky, and a host of surprise guests, the night was a full-circle moment for fans who truly experienced this music the first time around.

    Y2K Fashion Takes Over Atlanta

    Long before the first note was played, the crowd set the stage for a night of pure nostalgia. Attendees embraced the Y2K aesthetic, rocking outfits reminiscent of 2003. Think fitted caps, denim adorned with Baby Phat and South Pole logos, and plenty of throwback jerseys. It was clear that the parents of today were ready to relive their youth with their grown-up style and money.

    Atlanta Classics Energize the Crowd

    Amerie kicked off the night, proving she still sounds and looks incredible, delivering a confident set that reminded everyone of her hit-filled catalog. Following her, Yung Joc and B5 had the audience locked in, demonstrating that the lyrics to their early hits are still deeply ingrained. The energy surged even higher when Crime Mob hit the stage, turning the arena up with “Knuck If You Buck.” Dem Franchize Boys kept the Atlanta vibe going, and the addition of Waka Flocka Flame created a chaotic, exhilarating atmosphere reminiscent of a wild college party.

    Surprise Guests and Unforgettable Sets

    Pretty Ricky shifted the energy but kept the crowd captivated, bringing out unexpected guests that electrified the venue. Tamar Braxton delivered a stellar performance, YFN Lucci got the crowd on their feet, and Keith Sweat, an Atlanta staple, proved his mic is always on. The appearance of Big Meech, marking his first time back in Atlanta in two decades, was met with an overwhelming welcome from the crowd.

    Bow Wow’s set was a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, instantly transporting attendees back to their youth with hits like “Ghetto Girls,” “Basketball,” and “Like You.” The appearance of his mentor Jermaine Dupri felt particularly special in Atlanta, leading to a So So Def reunion with Jagged Edge performing “Where Da Party At.” Even Trey Songz, Belly Gang Kushington, and YKNiece kept the momentum high, making Bow Wow’s segment feel like a comprehensive Atlanta showcase. The rapper was visibly moved when the Atlanta Hawks honored him for his eleventh show at State Farm Arena.

    B2K Closes Out a Memorable Night

    Closing out the night, B2K delivered all the hits fans grew up on, including “Gots ta Be,” “Uh Huh,” and “Girlfriend.” It was the perfect finale to an already packed evening of music and memories. The Black Promoters Collective, responsible for the tour, clearly knows how to run a tight show, ensuring no long breaks and keeping the energy consistently high.

    By the end of the night, it was evident that attendees received exactly what they came for: great music, genuine nostalgia, and a few precious hours to feel like their younger selves again. The “Boys 4 Life” Tour proved to be more than just a concert; it was a celebration of an era.

    Did you attend the ‘Boys 4 Life’ Tour? What was your favorite moment or performance? Share your Y2K memories in the comments below!

  • 8 Black Festivals To Experience This April

    Spring has sprung, and with it comes a fantastic lineup of Black festivals across the country! These events are more than just celebrations; they are powerful economic drivers, circulating dollars within local communities and serving as vital pillars for cultural preservation. Get ready to immerse yourself in heritage, culinary arts, entrepreneurship, world-class music, and literature at these must-attend April festivals.

    Festivals Celebrating Black Culture and Entrepreneurship

    1. **Black Effect Podcast Festival** (Atlanta, Georgia / April 25): Founded by Charlamagne Tha God and iHeartMedia, this one-day event at Pullman Yards focuses on Black digital storytelling, media technology, and ownership. It brings together visionaries and entrepreneurs for discussions on AI, wealth building, and the future of Black media.
    2. **Nashville Black Market Food Festival** (Nashville, Tennessee / April 11–12): Hosted by the Nashville Black Farmers’ Market, this dynamic festival combines culinary excellence with economic empowerment. It connects Black chefs and small business owners with consumers, serving as a model for circulating the Black dollar and supporting local businesses.
    3. **Charlotte African American Festival** (Charlotte, North Carolina / April 18): Celebrating its 13th year, this 10-hour festival at the Carole Hoefener Center explores African American heritage through live performances and business exhibits, inviting families and creatives to engage with legacy and future industry advancements.
    4. **Tampa Bay Black Heritage Music Festival** (Tampa, Florida / April 25–26): This two-day cultural event uses music to drive local tourism and community reinvestment. With high-traffic food vendors and professional programs, it’s a major African American celebration in the Southeast, significantly impacting the Tampa Bay area’s economy.
    5. **New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival** (New Orleans, Louisiana / April 23–May 3): Known globally as Jazz Fest, this renowned festival celebrates Black musical traditions and Creole culture at the Fair Grounds Race Course. Featuring global headliners and local legends, it’s a masterclass in cultural preservation and international brand equity.
    6. **Chocolate City Literature Festival** (Washington, D.C. / April 25–26): This gathering in the nation’s capital provides a dedicated space for Black authors, industry executives, and publishers to expand their reach. Through panels highlighting independent voices, it strengthens the literary ecosystem and promotes the growing market for Black-owned publishing.
    7. **CubaCaribe Festival** (San Francisco, California / April 10–19): Marking 20 years of artistic excellence, CubaCaribe showcases Afro-Caribbean dance and traditions, bridging global diaspora connections. The event highlights the rich cultural capital of Afro-Latin performing arts, uniting stories from Cuban, Puerto Rican, and Haitian heritage.

    Experience Culture, Celebration, and Community

    These April festivals offer incredible opportunities to connect with Black culture, support Black entrepreneurs, and celebrate the richness of these communities. Whether you’re passionate about music, food, literature, or dance, there’s an event for everyone to enjoy and contribute to.

    Which of these Black festivals are you planning to attend? Are there any other April festivals celebrating Black culture that we should know about? Share your plans and recommendations in the comments below!

  • 8 Black Maternal Health Week Events Nationwide

    Black Maternal Health Week, observed annually from April 11 to April 15, marks its 10th anniversary in 2026 with the powerful theme, ‘Rooted in Justice & Joy.’ This movement is more than just a health campaign; it’s a radical effort to reclaim the birthing experience for Black mothers. This milestone year emphasizes that awareness must translate into action, shifting the narrative from ‘at-risk’ statistics to demanding systemic accountability.

    Shifting Focus to Black-Led Care

    Led by the Black Mamas Matter Alliance (BMMA), the initiative firmly argues that the maternal health crisis stems from medical negligence and structural racism, not Black biology. Organizers stress that true equity requires moving beyond hospital-centric models and embracing solutions already thriving within Black communities, such as the vital work of doulas and midwives. The call is for the healthcare system to listen, fund, and step aside for these community-based approaches.

    This year’s Black Maternal Health Week features a range of community-based, grassroots activities designed to raise awareness, provide resources, and foster joy and justice in the birthing journey. Here are some of the key events happening nationwide:

    Featured Events Across the Nation

    1. **The South (Georgia & Florida):**
      * **2026 Black Maternal Health Walk & Community Fair** (Atlanta, GA, April 11): Hosted by Black Mamas Matter Alliance, featuring a guided walk, yoga, and access to maternal health resources.
      * **ATL Black Maternal Health Week Block Party** (Atlanta, GA, April 11): Hosted by 4Kira4Moms, a family-friendly event with health screenings, ‘dad games,’ and food trucks focused on preventing maternal mortality.
      * **MOMMA Fest & Race for Black Mommas** (Tampa, FL, April 11–12): A two-day event by USF Health combining physical activity and advocacy to address regional maternal health disparities.
    2. **The West (California):**
      * **5th Annual Community Baby Shower & Resource Fair** (Los Angeles, CA, April 11): Hosted by Black Infants and Families Los Angeles, offering practical support and somatic grounding for Black families.
      * **Black Mamas Birthing Tour** (Los Angeles, CA, April 12): Hosted by Black Women for Wellness, an educational tour on birthing options and culturally appropriate care.
    3. **The Southwest (Texas):**
      * **Black Mamas ATX Summit Launch** (Austin, TX, April 11): Hosted by Black Mamas ATX & Austin Public Health, a leadership summit focused on health system reform and fair healthcare access.
    4. **The Midwest (Missouri & Illinois):**
      * **3rd Annual Centering Joy in the Black Birthing Experience Conference** (St. Louis Metro Area, April 11): A conference discussing birth equity and culturally competent care solutions.
    5. **The Northeast (New York):**
      * **Walking for Our Mothers** (Brooklyn, NY, April 11): A community solidarity walk in Prospect Park honoring Black mothers and advocating for improved maternal health outcomes.

    A Movement Rooted in Justice and Joy

    These events represent a powerful collective effort to shift the paradigm of Black maternal health. By centering community leadership, advocating for systemic change, and celebrating the joy and resilience inherent in the birthing experience, Black Maternal Health Week continues to be a vital force for progress.

    Which of these Black Maternal Health Week events are you most excited about? How can we continue to support Black mothers and birthing people? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

  • Black Mamas Matter Launches 10th Maternal Health Week

    The Black Mamas Matter Alliance (BMMA) is launching its 10th annual Maternal Health Week, commencing on April 11th – a significant date also recognized as International Day for Maternal Health and Rights and Black Doula Day. This year’s campaign, themed “Rooted In Justice and Joy,” aims to foster crucial conversations and advocate for the well-being of Black mothers through a series of digital and in-person events.

    A Week Focused on Justice and Joy

    The week-long initiative is designed to highlight the critical issues surrounding Black maternal health while celebrating the resilience and joy found within the community. BMMA’s commitment to justice in the reproductive fight is central to their mission, seeking to reclaim the positive aspects of motherhood amidst ongoing challenges.

    The campaign kicks off in Atlanta with a Black Maternal Health Walk and Community Fair, providing an opportunity for Black mothers and their supporters to connect and engage in wellness activities. Globally, the week will feature a virtual webinar on birth justice, aiming to connect advocates on an international scale.

    Community Upliftment and Advocacy

    Further virtual events include a neighborhood pep rally designed to inspire and promote Black maternal health organizations nationwide. This will be followed by a networking event for Atlanta’s professionals, fostering collaboration among industry leaders to advance the movement’s goals. These activities coincide with BMMA’s 10th anniversary of the Global Black Maternal Health Movement.

    Angela D. Aina, co-founder of BMMA, shared the profound significance of this year’s launch: “As we launch our 9th annual Black Maternal Health Week, we do so rooted in both the weight of this moment and the joy of this movement,” she stated. “We are witnessing unprecedented attacks on Black families, on reproductive rights, and on the very institutions meant to protect our health and dignity. And yet, we remain rooted.”

    Inclusivity and Remembrance

    BMMA is also expanding its programming to be inclusive of diverse family structures, opening discussions to trans parents and gender-expansive families navigating the healthcare system. The week will conclude with a Community Remembrance and Healing vigil on April 17th, honoring lives lost to maternal mortality and recognizing the ongoing fight in their memory.

    Aina emphasized the interconnectedness of justice and joy: “Justice and joy are not separate — they are the foundation of everything we do. BMHW26 is a time for community-rooted action in addressing maternal health inequities and ensuring that everyone, especially Black Mamas, receives the resources needed to thrive.” Advocates can find more information and sign up for events on the BMMA website.

    BMMA’s work is incredibly important. How can we all contribute to addressing Black maternal health inequities? Share your thoughts and ways to get involved in the comments below!