“The Most Disrespected Person in America is the Black Woman. The Most Unprotected Person in America is the Black Woman. The Most Neglected Person in America is the Black Woman.” – Malcolm X
In our community, “Strong Black Woman” is often a badge of honor. But behind that strength, too often, lies a silent struggle of having to “keep it together” or always “pushing through” leaving the pillars of our community at the forefront of the fight and forced to deal with the backend; health disparities. Black women’s health is not just a woman’s issue, it is a community issue. Their well-being is foundational to the health, resilience and progress of the entire black community–mentally, physically and spiritually. Yet it would seem that the significance and general needs of their health are too often overlooked, belittled, patronized or simply forgotten by the healthcare system and society at-large and therefore, by proxy, by themselves. I look to not blame anyone but encourage anyone who may listen and go forth to act in their own way. In this expose I look to explore the unique health challenges, the central role of Black Women, and the interconnectedness of their health with their community’s overall well-being.
The Disparities are Stark, The Roots are Deep. The statistics paint a grim picture that demands our unwavering attention: Black women in America face alarmingly disproportionate rates of maternal mortality, often three to four times higher than their white counterparts. This isn’t a matter of genetics; it’s a stark indictment of a healthcare system that has historically marginalized and underserved Black women. From implicit bias in medical settings to the chronic stress stemming from navigating systemic racism and socioeconomic disparities, the roots of these health inequities run deep. Cardiovascular disease, too, casts a long shadow over our community, with Black women experiencing higher rates of hypertension, heart disease, and stroke, often exacerbated by limited access to healthy food options, safe spaces for exercise, and culturally competent healthcare providers. These aren’t isolated incidents; they are symptoms of a larger societal illness that we must actively diagnose and treat.
The Backbone, The Heart, The Healer. Within the fabric of our community, Black women have long served as the unwavering backbone, the compassionate heart, and the tireless healer. The moniker ‘strong Black woman,’ while often intended as a compliment, can inadvertently mask the immense pressures and burdens shouldered by our mothers, sisters, daughters, and aunties. They are the glue that often holds families together, the primary caregivers for children and elders, the organizers in our community groups, and the spiritual anchors in our churches. They navigate demanding careers, often while managing households and supporting extended families. This inherent strength and dedication, while admirable, can come at a significant cost to their own well-being. When the very individuals who are so vital to our collective survival and progress are struggling with their health, the entire community feels the strain. Their ability to nurture, lead, and uplift is directly tied to their own physical, mental, and spiritual vitality.
The Ripple Effect. Consider the ripple effect when a Black mother is grappling with postpartum depression or the lingering effects of a difficult birth. Her ability to bond with her child, nurture her family, and contribute to her community is undeniably impacted. The stress and anxiety she experiences can permeate the household, affecting the mental and emotional well-being of her partner and children. Similarly, when a Black woman is battling chronic cardiovascular disease, her capacity to actively participate in community life, to lead initiatives, and to provide the emotional and practical support her loved ones rely on is diminished. Conversely, when a Black woman is healthy – mentally resilient, physically vibrant, and spiritually grounded – she becomes an even more powerful force for good. She is better equipped to raise healthy and thriving children, to be a strong and supportive partner, to lead community initiatives with energy and vision, and to serve as an inspiration to those around her. Her wellness isn’t just a personal victory; it’s a collective gain that strengthens the entire Black community from the individual household to the broader society.
Invest In Her, Uplift Us All. The time for mere acknowledgment of these disparities is long past; we must move with intention and urgency towards tangible action. For Black women, this means prioritizing your well-being without guilt. Seek preventative care, build strong support networks, and advocate fiercely for your health needs within medical systems that may not always see you. For our community, this requires a fundamental shift in how we support our Black women. Let us actively share caregiving responsibilities, create spaces where their mental and emotional health are prioritized, and challenge the societal pressures that demand superhuman strength without offering adequate support.
Our Historically Black Colleges and Universities have a crucial role to play here. They must continue to be centers of research on health disparities, train culturally competent healthcare professionals, and actively engage in community health initiatives that directly address the needs of Black women. Furthermore, we must demand policy changes at local, state, and national levels that address the social determinants of health, expand access to quality and affordable healthcare, and dismantle the systemic racism that underpins these inequities. Investing in Black women’s health isn’t just a matter of fairness; it’s a strategic imperative for the overall health, strength, and progress of our entire Black community.”
Destin Theus is a Grambling State University student.
