LEAP of Faith
“If you want peace, work for justice.” ~ Pope Paul VI
The Inclusive Justice Initiative invites you to take a LEAP of faith with us … exploring Catholic social teaching. In 2024, we plan to explore systemic injustice and look for ways we, as Catholics, can take steps to help alleviate it.
Human Dignity and Respect for Human Life – Maternal and Infant Health
LEARN: Comparing 38 high-income countries in 2020, the US had the highest infant mortality rate at 5.4 deaths per 1,000 live births. Maternal deaths were over 3 times the rate. Rates are particularly poor among Black and Native American mothers, who are roughly three times as likely to die during and after pregnancy, and their infants face up to double the risk of dying, compared with white and Hispanic mothers.
EXPLORE: Reasons cited include inadequate prenatal care, a high rate of cesarean sections, and poverty. These are not the only factors as Black women from all economic strata are affected by implicit bias. https://bit.ly/IJImaternalhealth
ACT: Potential solutions include raising awareness among healthcare providers, increasing health literacy, advancing health equity, providing more resources, partnering with organizations, and tracking results. The Catholic Health Association of the United States is strongly advocating for the passage of the Black Maternal Health Momnibus Act in Congress. https://bit.ly/momnibusamericamag
PRAY: O God, may we live according to your vision for humanity, a vision where all are treated with respect and love. We pray for the health and safety of all mothers and infants, especially those who are most vulnerable. Amen.
To see the complete article, please click here.
For further information, click here for the Social Justice page on the St Thomas website.
