Resource: Technical Brief
Report of the MA Special Commission on Racial Inequities in Maternal Health
This report links systemic racism to maternal disparities and recommends equity-focused reforms.
The report identifies systemic racism as a key driver of racial disparities in maternal health. Racial inequities occur across communities, public health systems, and healthcare settings, contributing to higher risks of severe maternal morbidity and mortality for Black and other birthing people of color. Recommendations include stronger community engagement, improved public health infrastructure, redesigned healthcare delivery, expanded midwifery and doula access, better data collection, and sustained oversight—to advance racial equity and improve outcomes statewide.