Advocating for Maternal Mental Health

The U.S maternal care system fails to protect the mental health of women, especially Black women and women of color, who face the burden of structural racism. WE Public Health supported the Reilly Group, Inc., and Postpartum Support International in building a coalition of national and state advocates to advance policy and legislation.

• Facilitated monthly coalition calls with 35+ national organizations 

• Expanded coalition reach by increasing membership 

• Developed a policy training curriculum and supporting materials

• Facilitated extended state advocacy training series 

• Trained and coached state advocates to convene key partners for policy action

• Developed resources, reports, and communications

• Presented work to national stakeholder groups

The coalition supported legislation to expand Medicaid coverage, support doulas and community health workers, increase access to prevention and care, expand and diversify the workforce, and improve maternal mental health outcomes.