Why I’m attending the Labour Party conference 

As we step into October, we embrace the powerful theme of this year’s Black History Month: Black Resistance.

This theme invites us to reflect on the indomitable spirit of Black individuals who, throughout history, have resolutely resisted oppression, discrimination, and prejudice. It serves as a poignant reminder that Black history is a tapestry of strength, resilience, and unwavering determination – an invaluable heritage that extends far beyond this dedicated month.

Black History Month is a time of profound significance, offering us an opportunity to spotlight the remarkable contributions and unwavering resilience of Black people, not just during October but every day of the year. It serves as both a celebration of progress and a reminder of the ongoing challenges that persist. It’s a month of reflection, joy, celebration, introspection, and determination.

Global Black Maternal Health

Nearly two years ago, in the spirit of Black resistance and the pursuit of justice, I founded Global Black Maternal Health. My passion for addressing the unique challenges faced by Black women and mothers in relation to maternal health disparities ignited this endeavour.

In the UK, the statistics are stark: Black women are nearly four times more likely to die in pregnancy than white women, and the likelihood of experiencing a stillbirth is twice as high. The reasons for these disparities are multifaceted, but the environment plays a pivotal role.

Time and time again research shows the devastating effect air pollution has on pregnant women and their babies. Women living in areas with high levels of air pollution face a doubled risk of stillbirth. While air pollution is as bad for pregnant women as smoking in raising the risk of miscarriage.

Furthermore, the leading cause of death among pregnant and postpartum women in the UK, second only to suicide, is cardiovascular heart disease. Air pollution contributes to the development of cardiovascular disease and exacerbates symptoms.

Air pollution and racial inequality

At Global Black Maternal Health, we are steadfast in our commitment to creating positive change by addressing the intersection of air pollution, health disparities, and the wellbeing of Black women and mothers.

Air pollution affects us all, but its burden is not equally shared. There are so many examples of how Black communities in London are more often exposed to illegal levels of air pollution due to systemic inequalities.

Recognising the urgent need for action, we are dedicated to driving change through research, advocacy, and collaboration.

Research is the foundation of our work. On this year’s Clean Air Day, we unveiled the Black Child Clean Air Report, an unprecedented effort that sheds light on the knowledge, behaviours, and attitudes of Black women regarding air pollution. This invaluable report equips us to develop targeted interventions and policies that can lead to improved health outcomes.