April 29th 2024.
The Portsmouth Department of Social Services and the local Delta Sigma Theta Sorority alumnae chapter recently joined forces to host a community-wide baby shower on April 27. The event was a wonderful opportunity for current and expectant mothers to come together and celebrate the joy of motherhood. The sorority's South Atlantic region generously provided a grant of $3,000 to support families during the pre- and postnatal periods.
According to a report by WTKR, the Delta Sigma Theta members expressed their concern about the alarming rates of infant mortality and black maternal mortality in Portsmouth. With this in mind, they launched the event as a way to take action and make a positive impact in their community. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services also highlighted this issue in their 2022 overview of the state of Virginia, noting a goal set by the state's governor to eliminate the racial disparity in maternal mortality by 2025. The report revealed that from 2015 to 2019, the mortality rate in Virginia was 18.5 per 100,000 live births, with a significant difference between white women at 14.1 per 100,000 and black women at 38.2 per 100,000.
The baby shower was a day filled with resources and support for mothers, thanks to the vendors and a panel of maternal health professionals present. Nichole Wardlaw, a seasoned midwife with 19 years of experience and over 1,000 deliveries under her belt, shed light on the issue of maternal mortality. She shared that many of her clients come to her because they feel invisible and unheard in the medical system. She also spoke about the implicit bias that exists and the lack of informed decision-making and joint-decision-making between healthcare providers and clients.
The event also brought to light the concerns of LaKeesha Gray, a member of the Delta Sigma Theta Sorority. She emphasized the staggering numbers of infant mortality and black maternal mortality rates in the city of Portsmouth, and the need to address this issue. The organizers aimed to empower mothers by providing them with important resources, such as doulas who could accompany them to appointments. Gray explained that they wanted to help mothers understand how to advocate for themselves and their babies, and to know what services they should be asking for or demanding.
One of the main objectives of the baby shower was to create a supportive community network for the women and families of Portsmouth. The sorority's efforts were focused on creating an embracing environment where new life could thrive. It was a heartwarming event that brought together mothers from all walks of life, and it was a true testament to the power of community and support.
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