A CALL FOR A LOOK IN THE MIRROR | |
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Deaconess Community,
With the celebration of Black Maternal Health Week, the vitality of our Black mothers, birthing people, babies, and families has been on my mind. In a recurring column published in The St. Louis American this week, I shared the following...
As we enter this spring season, which is the earth’s way of reminding us to hope and to be renewed, we do so under circumstances that make us have to catch our breath and square our shoulders. How infants thrive (or fail to do so) during their first year of life holds up a mirror to any society. It reflects the social, economic, environmental, and spiritual conditions that our most precious little ones face and have to endure to make it.
As we hold the mirror up to ourselves in the eight counties of Deaconess Foundation’s footprint in Missouri and Illinois, our reflection is distorted. Systems are historically designed to foster thriving for a narrow few while intentionally structured and fueled to discount and diminish the lives of the many. Out of all the numbers I could share and the life experiences I can personally point to, I’m choosing to boil it down to this: of all pregnancy-related deaths in the state of Missouri, the Pregnancy-Associated Mortality Review (PAMR) shows that 84% were determined to be PREVENTABLE. In the Illinois Maternal Morbidity and Mortality Report showing what happened to 263 people who died while pregnant or within one year of giving birth from 2018 to 2020, 91% of pregnancy-related deaths might have been PREVENTABLE. Preventable. We cannot continue to look grieving families in their eyes to share the truth they’ve always known. Many of the reasons why their loved one is no longer with us, and they are left to figure out life without them is caused by something we could have and should have stopped from happening.
To each warrior seen and unseen at every level of community, institutions, and systems who never stops fighting and winning to get us closer to the best reflection of ourselves in the image of our Creator, thank you and we see you. More than one generation’s worth of philanthropic and federal funding flowed in Missouri to support innovative partnerships to curb the tide. For the sake of fueling hope, I draw attention to the possibility of what can happen when philanthropy, community health and public health infrastructure, and bold leaders galvanize to shape system response around the will and experiences of Black mothers and birthing people.
In direct response to the Ferguson Commission’s call to action to create opportunities to thrive through systemic changes, including increased access to care, the St. Louis Integrated Health Network (IHN) was activated. The IHN works with partners and community organizations to ensure accessible and affordable healthcare services for all residents of Metropolitan St. Louis. A multi-racial group of women physicians identified and are disrupting the stark inequities and unconscious biases pervasive within infant and maternal healthcare. By intentionally listening to and amplifying the solutions brought forward through the wisdom and life experiences of Black mothers and birthing people, the IHN is perpetuating a model of well-being that can be tapped into by moms and medical professionals alike through the work of EleVATE (Elevating Voices, Addressing depression, Toxic stress and Equity). As a status quo disruptor, EleVATE provides prenatal care in a group setting for Black women and birthing people and their support system, engaging the patient as a partner, and offering the best clinical care and quality information sharing to elicit the best choices that moms make for themselves and their families.
The results are generating improvements in infant and maternal vitality that include increased rates of breastfeeding, increased trust reported among and across care providers and patient partners, higher birth weights, and decreased stress levels. Dismantling the impacts of structural racism systemically and individually is centrally positioned as the collaborative’s ongoing work to stop the generational cycles of trauma before they start.
In Southern Illinois, I desire my community to receive even more activation and transparency around the issues that surround maternal and infant health that squander the potential of generations of its people. What are accountable institutions, public servants, and leaders doing about it? For example, how do national statistics compare locally, disaggregated by race and socio-economic levels?
We know that only 5.7% of physicians in the U.S. identify as Black or African American, according to the Association of American Medical Colleges, compared to an estimated 12% of the U.S. population identifying as Black or African American. Of all OB-GYN physicians, only 10.7% identify as Black or African American across the U.S. I’m concerned about OB-GYN physician representation that reflects moms and birthing people in Southern Illinois. With fewer pregnancy-related deaths reported in 2023 among Black people as compared to the 2016-2017 Illinois Maternal Morbidity and Mortality Report, and more pregnancy-related deaths for Hispanic/Latinx and white Illinoisians, what is happening, and not happening, what exists, and does not exist in the Southern Illinois ecosystem that affects its people across the board in this way? What do we see when we look in the mirror given the lack of attention paid to this issue?
I offer my support to the open call letter written by our two health department directors Dr. Matifadza Hlatshwayo Davis and Dr. Kanika A. Cunningham for equity and reproductive justice. I lend my voice and purpose to join the cloud of witnesses around the world calling for women’s health justice before and beyond our reproductive years. Our power, value, and identity are sourced in so much more than what happens or doesn’t happen biologically within us. This is a call to be fully seen, unapologetically prioritized, and appropriately recognized for all that we bring to heal this nation and all of its people. We will not be silent, and we are far from dormant. What do you see when you look in the mirror?
Originally published on May 1, 2024, see here.
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In service to the will of the Spirit and the mission,
Rev. Bethany Johnson-Javois
President & CEO
Deaconess Foundation
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New Policy Campaign and Seeding the Future Grant Partners | |
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Policy Campaign Grants support general operating for timely and urgent issue-based campaigns advancing public policy through grassroots advocacy, civic engagement and community organizing that aligns with Deaconess' desired impacts. This year marks the 60th anniversary of Freedom Summer and ArchCity Defenders
is implementing Freedom Summer STL which are efforts around political and voter rights education and advocacy to create a space of service, activation, and recommitment to justice and transformation for the region in collaboration with Action St. Louis, Missouri Voter Protection Coalition, Freedom Community Center, Homes For All, and other grassroots community partners. Learn more here.
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In the spirit of continued transformation and progress, ArchCity Defenders will host a series of community events in St. Louis City and County focused on four areas: voting, expungement, abolition, and housing justice.
Mark your calendars for these dates: June 19th, June 29th, July 27th, and August 30th. Complete the interest form below to be notified of event updates.
During Freedom Summer STL events, ArchCity Defenders will be working with attendees to assess criminal records and opportunities for expungement, assisting with forms to be filed for attendees who are able to represent themselves, and guiding those whose cases are more complicated through their application process for full representation. If attorneys wish to volunteer just for these events, or to take cases after the fact, ArchCity Defenders is holding expungement training CLEs in May, June, and July to prepare volunteers for Freedom Summer work and ongoing partnership with ACD's RESTART Expungement Program. Register here.
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Seeding the Future Grants support organizational and civic infrastructure expansion, advancement of issue-specific public policies, and/or efforts impacting systems transformation through an intergenerational approach for the improved health and wellness of people in Eastern Missouri and Southern Illinois. This grant is designed to cultivate a partnership pipeline for the Movement Transformation Cohort. Funding is awarded quarterly and supports general operations. The following four organizations received $20,000 each for Cycle 1 in 2024: | |
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Action St. Louis
Funding supports "We the Tenants," a young campaign focused on civic engagement and working to expand rights for renters in the St. Louis area. This campaign centers the issues renters experience and educates renters about their rights while building power in the region through grassroots advocacy in the fight for housing justice.
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Missouri Equity Education Partners (MOEEP)
Funding supports building power and pursuing civic engagement with families in the education system to pursue accelerated change through advocacy and policy. Their District Captain Leadership Program identifies concerned parents and citizens within school districts and supports them through building leadership skills, advocating for equitable policy change, building relationships with stakeholders, and facilitating partnerships with influential figures. Beginning with engaging with the local governing body, the district captains also relay community needs to the broader MOEEP network, ensuring effective advocacy at all levels of governance.
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Good Journey Development Foundation
Funding supports working with youth in St. Louis to organize around food, racial, and social justice. Through "Our Community Our World" program young leaders work with adults and local growers as equal partners. This increases awareness in the Black community, and increases access to land and growing locally while consuming organically grown food. A beloved community is being built through this intergenerational approach to health justice and power building through organizing strategies and advocacy, teaching youth about policies affecting land.
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University of Missouri (MU) Extension in St. Louis County
Funding supports the Youth Empowerment Program (YEP) which trains youth ages 13-17 to acquire awareness and skills on civic engagement, organizing, power building, and base building. High school students from both rural and urban areas address current community issues through policy and advocacy by networking with elected officials, decision-makers, and community leaders.
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Applications Open for New Cohort!
This leadership development program provides Black people, ages 25 and older, in the Eastern Missouri and Southern Illinois region with an opportunity to heal from racial trauma and grow as leaders who will pursue a just future. Applications are open through Friday, May 24th for the second cohort which will begin in September 2024 and end in May 2025. Learn more and apply here.
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Upcoming Grant Deadline
Our Seeding the Future Grants support organizational and civic infrastructure expansion, advancement of public policies, and/or efforts impacting systems transformation through an intergenerational approach for the improved health and wellness of people in Eastern Missouri and Southern Illinois. Applications are now open through Friday, May 31st for Cycle 2. Learn more and apply for funding here.
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Welcome New Deaconess Team Member
Amanda Stoermer (she/her) is Deaconess' new Director, Grants & Partnerships. She is a forward-thinking leader who often plays the role of broker and translator pushing for systems and institutions to accelerate being responsive to the priorities set by our most impacted communities. Her primary responsibilities include developing and cultivating partnerships through grantmaking and providing capacity-building assistance beyond funding. She comes to Deaconess with more than 12 years of experience in the health equity sector. Learn more about Amanda here.
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Congratulations to the New SBEC Board Chair
Cheryl D.S. Walker (she/her) has been appointed as the new board chair of the St. Louis Small Business Empowerment Center (SBEC). Cheryl brings her extensive experience and vision to the role. Since 2011 Cheryl has engaged with Deaconess, previously serving as our interim president & CEO, a board trustee, and board chair. She currently serves as the project manager for Deaconess Foundation's Institute for Black Liberation. Read more about her new role at SBEC here.
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49 UMSL Undergraduate Nursing Students Participated in Missouri Nurse Advocacy Day
In March, Deaconess sponsored transportation for undergraduate nursing students at University of Missouri – St. Louis (UMSL) to join the Missouri Nurses Association and attend Missouri Nurse Advocacy Day in Jefferson City. Dr. Sheila Grigsby, assistant teaching professor at UMSL, helped to launch the pilot project with 49 senior nursing students.
Missouri Nurse Advocacy Day is designed to increase awareness of the political process for all nurses and nursing students. The event expands participants’ understanding of the legislative process and provides them with effective techniques for advocating for their patients and practice. This event focused on why legislative advocacy is important, identifying the Missouri Nurses Association’s key legislative priorities, as well as sharing what is needed from each nurse in the state to be successful at the Capitol. Key takeaways included: 1. Observation of the legislative process, 2. Opportunities for involvement in shaping health policy at the state level, and 3. Strategies for following up with state legislators.
Dr. Grigsby said the experience was eye-opening for many students where they could grapple with politics, experiencing firsthand how legislation is translated and where decisions are made. Students met with several legislators, including Senator Brian Williams, who is also a Deaconess board trustee, to discuss multiple bills including the “Do No Harm Act” and the impact the anti-diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) legislation has on higher education.
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Rent in St. Louis has gotten out of control. Here's why and what's being done about it
Miya Norfleet | St. Louis On the Air | April 12, 2024
Missouri saw the steepest rent increases in the nation last year. The financial pressure is hitting renters at a time when the cost of living is leading to tightening budgets and credit card debt.
In St. Louis, the rising cost of rental properties is putting families at risk of financial ruin, homelessness and even health issues.
On Friday’s St. Louis on the Air, Action St. Louis Executive Director Kayla Reed and data coordinator Teela Gajewski shared their findings from a study on the rental landscape of St. Louis in 2023. The report draws on surveys of tenants about their rent, maintenance and condition of their residences. The report also documents how out-of-state property managers drive up the cost of living in communities with low-income households, average rent by neighborhood and eviction rates. Read more.
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Illinois families seek change: Child tax credit may provide economic relief
Mackenzie LaPorte | News Channel 20 | February 8, 2024
Springfield, IL — Investing in our kids. The goal of many supporters and parents across the state of Illinois.
On Wednesday, leaders and advocates met up at the state capitol to call for the creation of a statewide child tax credit during this year’s legislative session, hoping to change the lives of millions of children across Illinois.
With the help of Senate Bill 3329 and House Bill 4917, Illinois may be on the track to becoming the 15th state across the nation to implement a statewide child tax credit. If passed, the bill would create a child tax credit, offering $300 for each child whose parents earn less than the median income. Read more.
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PARTNER OPPORTUNITIES & EVENTS | |
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Upcoming Events
May 4: "Outdoor event for Children's Mental Health Annual Celebration" by Vision for Children At Risk and partners. Learn more.
May 4: "Reimagining STL's Economy: Community Feedback Day" by WEPOWER and Community Wealth Action Group. Register.
May 6: "Community First Responder Training" by The T. Register.
May 9: "Monthly Fatal State Violence Meeting" by Faith For Justice and ArchCity Defenders. Learn More.
May 9: "Power Builders: All Black Space for Communal Healing and Political Education" by Freedom Community Center. Learn more.
May 10: "Pro Bono Opportunities with Legal Services: Family Law and Neighborhood Advocacy" by Legal Services of Eastern Missouri. Register here.
May 22: "Connective Play: Caregiver and Me Play Time" by Bud to Bloom Play Therapy. Register here.
May 25: "Culture Fusion: A Celebration of Blended Diversity" by New Cahokia Commons Urban Farm. Register here.
May 28: "Monthly Renters Meeting" by Arch City Defenders and Action St. Louis. Register.
June 6: "June Movement Meeting: by Defund. Re-envision. Transform. Register.
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Opportunities
Early Care and Education (ECE) Leader Fellowship
Kids Win Missouri is looking for 28 Fellows from all over the state of Missouri to join their program to help advocate for policies related to children and families. Fellows will get the chance to take work on the policy area of their choice, meet and communicate directly with Legislators (both in their communities and in Jefferson City), and build effective advocacy skills to become a leader in this work in their own communities. Learn more and apply by the Friday, May 3rd deadline here.
Gamaliel National Leadership Training (NLT): June 9-15, 2024 in St. Louis
The National Gamaliel Network network, rooted in faith and diversity, empowers ordinary individuals in low-income communities and communities of color to actively participate in the decisions that shape their lives. The NLT is a seven-day intensive leadership training that presents the concepts and tools an effective leader needs - helping individuals clarify their worldview and the source of their commitment to social justice. Learn more and connect with an MCU St. Louis Organizer at office@mcustl.com.
Four Exciting Opportunities to Participate in Facing Race 2024
Facing Race, the nation's largest, intergenerational racial justice conference, is seeking talented artists, culture bearers, and a videographer for multiple opportunities to be featured at the conference this November in St. Louis. Opportunities include: 1) artists to honor St. Louis' indigenous history, 2) filmmakers to story tell and promote racial justice and equity, 3) Local BIPOC artists to show what Greater St. Louis has to offer, and 4) curators to share creations at the vendor/exhibition. Learn more under the "Get Involved" tab here.
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ICYMI: MAY IS MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS MONTH | |
May is Mental Health Awareness Month. Join Deaconess Foundation President & CEO Rev. Bethany Johnson-Javois, our partners at Vision for Children at Risk and many more in breaking the mental health stigma, especially in our Black and Brown communities. We are speaking out and speaking up about our mental health needs. Learn more about upcoming events, toolkits for family, youth, and providers, and connect to resources through Vision for Children at Risk's Connected2Thrive campaign here. | |
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