At Dr. Shalon’s Maternal Action Project (DSMAP), our mission is to ensure that giving life does not become a death sentence for Black women. We are dedicated to eliminating the barriers, biases, and inequitable practices that impede access to quality maternal care. Through our comprehensive approach involving Storytelling, Empowerment, Community-Building, and Education, we aim to transform maternal health outcomes and foster a healthcare environment where every woman is respected, heard, and provided with the highest standard of care.
23.3 deaths per 100K live births (2018-2023)
Estimated at 5,114 (2018-2023)
32.9 deaths per 100K live births in 2021
69.9 deaths per 100K live births for black women
Empowering through action
“I see inequity wherever it exists. I am not afraid to call it by name and work hard to eliminate it. I vow to create a better earth.”
The SHALON Method is the cornerstone of Dr. Shalon’s Maternal Action Project, integrating Storytelling, Empowerment, Community-Building, and Education to address racial disparities in maternal healthcare.
The "Believe Her" initiative amplifies the voices of Black women in maternal healthcare. Through a mobile app, Black mothers can share experiences, access vital health information, and connect with supportive communities. This project empowers women to advocate for themselves, driving systemic change in healthcare practices.
The Legacy Study examines the long-term effects of maternal health disparities on Black families, highlighting impacts on mothers and children. By analyzing data, it informs policies that promote health equity and enhance maternal and child health outcomes.
The Grandmothers Rallying Against Maternal Mortality & Morbidity Strong (GRAMMS) initiative harnesses grandmother wisdom to support maternal health. This program mobilizes grandmothers to advocate for change, aid new mothers, and educate communities. GRAMMS is crucial in fostering an intergenerational network that improves the well-being of Black mothers and families.
Restoring Dignity to Postpartum Care
Join the ARIAH Foundation, Dr. Shalon’s MAP, and The Tatia Oden French Foundation in restoring dignity to the birthing and postpartum experiences of BIPOC individuals. Our national campaign focuses on the critical postpartum period, aiming to reduce adverse outcomes. Get involved and make a difference.
Each fall, the Combined Federal Campaign (CFC) enables Federal employees and retirees to come together to raise money and volunteer for our favorite charities.