The Neighborhood Birth Center in Boston, founded by Nashira Baril, is acutely aware of the maternal health disparities that exist, particularly for Black individuals. Black birthing individuals face a much higher risk of maternal mortality and morbidity compared to white individuals, with two to three times the likelihood of experiencing these negative outcomes.
Baril emphasizes the crisis in maternal health that disproportionately affects communities of color, particularly Black individuals. She attributes this disparity to systemic racism that permeates every aspect of society. Baril believes that these inequalities have nothing to do with genetics or inherent risks but are a result of the challenges Black individuals face in a society that was not built to support their well-being.
In honor of Black Maternal Health Week, the New Commonwealth Fund has granted $300,000 to the Neighborhood Birth Center. This funding will be used to establish Boston’s first and only community birth center that focuses on midwifery care in Roxbury, a predominantly Black neighborhood in the city.
Baril envisions a birthing center that provides a comfortable and supportive environment for expectant parents. The center will feature amenities such as queen-sized beds, spacious walk-in showers, and a birthing tub that accommodates partners or support persons. This initiative aims to address the gaps in maternal health care for Black individuals and provide a safe and inclusive space for pregnancy and childbirth in the community.
The Neighborhood Birth Center’s mission is to promote equitable access to midwifery care for all families regardless of race or socioeconomic status. By providing culturally sensitive care and addressing the unique needs of each family, Baril hopes to reduce maternal mortality rates and improve overall health outcomes for Black birthing individuals. With this new funding from The New Commonwealth Fund, she can make this vision a reality and provide hope for future generations of families who seek safer options during childbirth.
