Voices of Hope: Advancing Health Equity for Black Women and Latinas

Black Women Organized for Political Action and Hispanas Organized for Political Equity Announce Partnership for "Voices of Hope: Advancing Health Equity for Black Women and Latinas

April 15, 2024 — The Black Women Organized for Political Action (BWOPA) and Hispanas Organized for Political Equity (HOPE) are thrilled to announce their partnership with an ambitious and impactful project: "Voices of Hope: Advancing Health Equity for Black Women and Latinas." This collaborative initiative seeks to improve health outcomes for Black women and girls, as well as Latina teens and adults, through an in-depth study of health equity and healthcare workforce participation.

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted stark disparities in maternal health outcomes, with alarming rates of severe maternal morbidity (SMM) and maternal mortality among women in majority Black and Hispanic communities. Women in majority Black communities face a 63% higher rate of SMM compared to women in majority white communities, while women in majority Hispanic communities face a 32% higher rate. Additional studies show a rise in maternal mortality among Latinas due to the pandemic.

To address these disparities, BWOPA and HOPE will embark on an in-depth study inclusive of public opinion polls, focus groups and literature reviews featuring insights from leaders in maternal health and workforce development, enhancing the organizations’ ability to identify inequalities and provide meaningful solutions. The study will be informed by an advisory committee composed of two Latina practitioners and two Black women practitioners. This committee will guide the research project design, ensuring the latest data and perspectives inform the project’s approach. 

Helen Torres, CEO of HOPE, expressed her enthusiasm for the project, "In joining forces with BWOPA, we are committed to amplifying the voices of Black and Latina women, ensuring that their health needs are not only heard but prioritized. Together, we will pave a path towards health equity and empower our communities to thrive."

"Our partnership with HOPE marks a significant step towards addressing the systemic barriers that have long plagued Black and Latina women's access to quality healthcare. Through 'Voices of Hope,' we will drive actionable change, guided by the voices and experiences of those most affected by health disparities," added LaNiece Jones, Executive Director of BWOPA.

Through the study and listening sessions with Black and Latina leaders, BWOPA and HOPE will gather community feedback and share research findings to develop actionable policies and projects that uplift the voices of these historically underserved communities.

Over the course of three years, the "Voices of Hope: Advancing Health Equity for Black Women and Latinas" project will focus on raising awareness of the health disparities facing Latinas and Black women. Year one focused on experiences with accessing Mental Health care, year two is dedicated to exploring barriers to equity in Maternal Health, and year three will focus on how to improve pathways for Black women and Latinas to enter the healthcare workforce.

Together, BWOPA and HOPE will provide training for policymakers and community leaders (both youth and adults) to strengthen their understanding of the research conducted. This will empower them to advocate effectively for policies that address the unique needs of Black and Latina women in maternal health.

The project is supported by Kaiser Permanente Northern California Community Benefit Programs.

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