By 
Health
For generations, Indigenous midwives have supported birth as a sacred and powerful part of life, deeply connected to family, land and culture. As Western medicine took over, many of these traditions were lost or pushed aside. Now, Indigenous birth workers are coming together to reclaim their roles — and support their communities in meaningful, culturally grounded ways. Check out videos, articles and resources to witness a powerful movement in action.
During Black Maternal Health Week, WKKF grantees Mississippi Black Women’s Roundtable and Six Dimensions joined lawmakers and advocates at the state Capitol to celebrate major policy victories aimed at improving outcomes for Black mothers in Mississippi. Among the wins: presumptive Medicaid eligibility for pregnant women — ensuring immediate access to care while applications are processed — and paid parental leave for state employees, a critical step toward supporting working families. These advances reflect sustained advocacy to address stark racial disparities in maternal health in the state, where over 80% of pregnancy-related deaths are preventable and Black women are three times more likely to die from pregnancy-related complications than White women. The event was a powerful reminder that maternal health policy isn’t just about reducing risk — it’s about creating the conditions for every mother to thrive.
Impact Investing
At the end of May, cyclists will embark on a 1,645-mile ride from Tulsa, Oklahoma’s, historic Black Wall Street to New York City’s Wall Street as part of the 4th Annual Ride for Equity. Organized by WKKF grantee Black Leaders Detroit, the event highlights ongoing economic injustices and supports entrepreneurs nationwide. In the past four years, Black Leaders Detroit has raised more than $4 million and distributed support to more than 600 small businesses and organizations through the Ride for Equity.
Mississippi
Applications are now open for Mississippi Roadtrip! This fall, three young Mississippians will hit the road with WKKF grantee Roadtrip Nation to explore exciting career paths across the state — from health care and agriculture to tech and finance. The journey will be filmed as part of a new documentary special. Candidates for this unique, all-expenses-paid opportunity to explore Mississippi’s future must apply by June 22. Be sure to tell strong applicants all about it.
New Orleans
In Episode three of Voices of I Am New Orleans, we highlight the work of Dillard University’s Center for Racial Justice (CRJ) and the student leaders driving change from the ground up. Lucine and Raven, two CRJ student advocates, share how their involvement has shaped their growth, purpose and impact in their communities. With nearly 50% of students citing “not knowing how to get started” as a key barrier to engagement, CRJ is helping bridge the gap — creating socially conscious leaders who turn awareness into action.
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