09/07/2026
Honored to see the County Executive uplift the Black Maternal Health Initiative. The Black Health Equity Coalition has been leading this work with dedication, community wisdom, and a commitment to improving outcomes for Black birthing people in Frederick County. This recognition matters.
Today, alongside fellow leaders, we proudly gathered to celebrate the graduation of 24 full-spectrum doulas and 14 breastfeeding specialists through Frederick County’s Black Maternal Health Initiative, a powerful investment in the health, safety, and future of Black families. Congratulations to these new health leaders! Your compassion, cultural understanding, and expertise will make a meaningful difference for families, helping ensure they feel supported, respected, and safe before, during, and after pregnancy.
Launched with support from Frederick County Government, MD, and now led by Project Manager Shatema Mills, the initiative began by listening to Black families and learning from their birthing experiences and where they face barriers to good health because of unfair systems. Now in its third phase, this community-driven approach has brought partners together to identify challenges, develop solutions, and strengthen support for families through collaboration among the Black Health Equity Coalition, Frederick County Health Department, Frederick Health , Frederick Community College, and the broader community. For more information, visit Health.FrederickCountyMD.gov/BlackMaternalHealth
