About Us – Dr. Shalon's Maternal Action Project

Dr. Shalon’s Legacy

On January 28, 2017, Dr. Shalon Irving tragically passed away from preventable complications after giving birth to her daughter, Soleil. Her unwavering commitment to justice and groundbreaking work in community health serve as a beacon of inspiration for us. At Dr. Shalon’s Maternal Action Project, we honor her legacy by fighting for a future where Black mothers are not only heard and respected but receive the equitable, high-quality care they deserve. Our mission is driven by her vision of a world free from systemic injustice in maternal healthcare.

Our Approach: Four Pillars of Impact

Maternal mortality is a complex issue. We believe change needs to happen at national and institutional levels, supported by leaders in politics and healthcare. But we also believe that the most powerful tool a black mother has is her voice. That’s why we developed four pillars with which we use as the base of our action and strategic partnerships. All the work that we do is centered around Storytelling, Empowerment, Community-Building, and Education.

Storytelling

We harness the power of personal narratives to shed light on the real-life experiences of Black women in maternal healthcare. By sharing these stories, we humanize the statistics and foster empathy, driving awareness and change within the healthcare system.

Empowerment

We equip women of color with the knowledge and tools they need to take control of their maternal health journeys. This includes access to vital health information, advocacy skills, and resources that enhance their agency and impact.

Community Building

We create a robust support network that brings together mothers, families, healthcare providers, and advocates. This community not only offers emotional and social support but also works collectively to advocate for systemic reforms in maternal healthcare.

Education

We focus on educating both healthcare providers and the communities they serve. Our training programs emphasize cultural competency and reducing biases, ensuring that healthcare professionals are better equipped to meet the unique needs of women of color.

Milestones & Achievements: A Journey Through Time

Explore the pivotal moments that have shaped the trajectory of Dr. Shalon’s Maternal Action Project. Our timeline highlights key events and milestones that reflect our commitment to transforming maternal healthcare for women of color. Each step on this journey illustrates our dedication and the impactful change we strive to enact in communities nationwide