Hosted by Dr. Shalon’s Maternal Action Project
CommuniTEA 4 Change™ is a high-impact, solutions-driven convening designed to confront the national maternal health crisis and drive systemic transformation—especially for Black women and birthing people.
Across the United States, Black women are more than twice as likely to die from pregnancy-related causes as white women. This crisis demands more than awareness—it demands collective action.
This flagship gathering unites a powerful cross-section of maternal health leaders—policymakers, healthcare professionals, advocates, and faith leaders—from communities nationwide. Together, we will reflect on the state of maternal health, spotlight promising innovations, and build shared strategies to protect and uplift Black families everywhere.
About
Know a child who would benefit from CommuniTEA 4 Kids™?
CommuniTEA 4 Kids™ creates a gentle, healing space for children ages 7–15 who are being raised by someone other than their mother. Through art, play, and guided support, we help children process loss, express emotions, and feel seen and supported.
If you know a child who could benefit from this experience, please encourage their caregiver to contact us for more information or to register. Together, we can help every child feel safe, understood, and uplifted. Email us:
Want to host a CommuniTEA 4 Change™? Let’s make it happen. Join us in co-creating something powerful.
Who Should Attend
CommuniTEA 4 Change™ is designed for everyone committed to advancing maternal health equity and transforming outcomes for Black women and birthing people.
Attendees include:
Healthcare professionals – obstetricians, midwives, nurses, doulas, lactation consultants, and public health practitioners seeking culturally grounded approaches to care.
Policy and systems leaders – legislators, health department officials, and organizational decision-makers shaping maternal health policy and funding priorities.
Community advocates and organizers – those leading grassroots efforts to address disparities and build local networks of support.
Researchers and educators – advancing evidence-based practices and training the next generation of equity-centered professionals.
Faith and civic leaders – trusted voices who influence families, communities, and systems of support.
Families and lived-experience experts – women and families directly impacted by pregnancy-related complications, whose perspectives guide meaningful change.
Together, these voices will learn, collaborate, and build solutions that make maternal health safer, more just, and more joyful for every family.
Get involved: We’re inviting leaders across the U.S. to partner with us. Near-term convenings are in Georgia (Atlanta and Athens), with additional markets to follow.
Why It Matters
The United States continues to face one of the highest maternal mortality rates among developed nations. Black women are more than twice as likely to die from pregnancy-related causes—and countless others survive but carry the physical and emotional scars of traumatic birthing experiences.
Our work is to confront these inequities head-on, address the conditions that create them, and give women the joyful, safe, and supported birthing experiences they deserve.
How You Can Engage
Whether you’re working on the front lines or championing from afar, there’s a role for you in this vital work.
📩 Contact us to learn more or inquire about attending or hosting a CommuniTEA: [email protected]
💡 Share your ideas—your insights help shape the path forward.
💜 Donate or become a sponsor to help us expand our reach and impact.
Together, we can build a future where every Black birthing person receives the care, dignity, and support they deserve
For children ages 7–15 who have lost their mothers.
CommuniTEA 4 Kids offers a gentle, supportive space where children can honor their mom’s memory through creativity, connection, and care.
What to Expect:
🎨 Art & Expression: Kids will create a keepsake tribute through guided art and writing activities.
💛 Emotional Support: Led by caring educators and mental health professionals.
🤝 Peer Connection: A safe place to meet others who understand.
Held indoors in a nurturing environment, this 3-hour session is part of our larger CommuniTEA for Change gathering.
While children participate in CommuniTEA 4 Kids, parents and caregivers are invited to join their own session nearby—focused on healing, advocacy, and building community.
