Pregnancy-related deaths have steadily increased in the U.S. over the last three decades and Black women in America are three to four times more likely to die from childbirth or pregnancy-related causes than white non-Latina women. In New York City, the mortality rate for Black mothers rises to 12 times.
“If you could be Serena Williams, or Erica Garner, or Beyoncé and have your life be threatened, or in some cases, your life end, as a result of negligence, we acknowledge that negligence is largely connected to racial bias,” said Thomas. “We know that there’s something underlying that is creating this playing field that’s level regardless of where you stand.”