# What This Bill Does

This bill officially designates the week of April 11-17, 2025, as "Black Maternal Health Week" across the country. It's the eighth year this week is being recognized, and it was created by an organization called Black Mamas Matter Alliance. The bill doesn't create any new laws or programs—it's simply a formal declaration to draw national attention to a serious health crisis.

# Why This Matters

Black women and pregnant people in the United States face significantly higher rates of pregnancy-related deaths and health complications compared to white women. This week is designed to raise awareness about these disparities and push for solutions. By officially designating this week, Congress is saying this issue deserves national attention and recognition. It's similar to how Congress designates other awareness weeks throughout the year—it's a way of telling the country "this problem is important and we need to talk about it."

# Who This Affects

While this bill doesn't directly change anyone's healthcare or create new programs, it matters to Black women and birthing people who are disproportionately affected by maternal health problems. It also matters to healthcare providers, advocates, and policymakers working to reduce maternal mortality. The designation gives these groups a formal platform to educate the public, share stories, and push for policy changes during that specific week. For most people, this bill is symbolic—it's Congress using its voice to highlight an urgent health crisis that needs more attention and resources.

Supporting the designation of the week of April 11 through April 17, 2025, as the eighth annual "Black Maternal Health Week", founded by Black Mamas Matter Alliance, Inc. (BMMA), to bring national attention to the maternal and reproductive health crisis in the United States and the importance of reducing maternal mortality and morbidity among Black women and birthing people.