WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Democratic Whip Katherine Clark (MA-5) issued the following statement on Black Maternal Health Week:
 
“Black Maternal Health Week focuses on a critical moral failure in our country’s health system. Black women are three times more likely to die due to pregnancy in America than white women. This crisis reflects the interwoven injustices that persist in our communities, from institutional racism to the lack of affordable health care to the ongoing assault on reproductive freedom. 

“Tragically, the health outcomes of Black moms will only worsen as Republicans restrict access to comprehensive reproductive health care, including abortion services. Instead of working to save lives and improve the well-being of Black women, extremist politicians are taking away the vital services that safeguard moms’ health and safety.
 
“Working alongside the Biden-Harris Administration, House Democrats are leading the way toward a future that fully honors the rights and dignity of every parent. We have proudly taken action to bolster maternal mental health services, extend postpartum coverage under Medicaid, defend the workplace rights of pregnant and nursing employees, and fight for reproductive health care in every state and zip code. While these are important strides forward, we will not rest until every expecting family is guaranteed the safety, security, and support they deserve.”