Atlanta Event Shines Light on Black Maternal Mental Health, Advocating for Community Support and Wellness

The Dunbar Recreation Center in Atlanta, GA, recently hosted a significant and much-needed celebration focused on Black maternal mental health. Organized by the Birth Justice Team in collaboration with the Center for Black Women’s Wellness and LaCresha Cunningham, the event aimed to shed light on an often-overlooked issue. The gathering drew strong community support, attracting mothers, birth workers, and more. The atmosphere was soothing and relaxing, providing a fitting contrast to the serious subject matter.

Black women experience perinatal and postpartum mental health issues at twice the rate of their white counterparts, a disparity that is frequently ignored by medical professionals and society at large. Recognizing this, the event featured various sessions, including sound baths, somatic body healing, and open discussions on Black maternal health. Attendees were also provided with resources to further educate and support the community.

Cree Cunningham, an Authenticity Coach, Author, and mother, shared her personal experiences, connecting deeply with the audience. Her role as a perinatal Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) and her dedication to supporting women’s health made her an essential part of the team. Through her retreats and events focused on womanhood and the feminine experience, Cunningham continues to advocate for the mental well-being of Black mothers.

The Birth Justice Team hopes that this event underscores the importance of Black maternal mental health and demonstrates that the mental well-being of Black mothers is just as vital as that of anyone else. The event was a powerful reminder of the impact that dedicated individuals and organizations can have when they come together to support a cause.

Keep up with Cree on social media to follow her journey  @healingscaredscars