By: Khadedra Harrison
I had the incredible opportunity to attend the 2024 CityMatCH Maternal and Child Health
Leadership Conference in Seattle, Washington, as a first-time participant with Tulane University
CEMCH program. The theme this year was “Reconnecting and Transforming MCH: A Journey
of Healing, Rebirth, and Growth,” perfectly capturing the essence of what this gathering aimed
to achieve.
CityMatCH, a national organization dedicated to addressing public health issues in urban
settings, particularly those related to maternal and child health, brought together an inspiring
community of public health practitioners, researchers, and advocates. The conference served
as a vital platform for sharing knowledge, collaborating on innovative solutions, and showcasing
successful programs tailored to the unique challenges faced by urban populations.
One of the standout moments for me was the general session on Tuesday, which focused on
“Advancing Birth Justice Through Data on Sovereignty, Positionality, and Methodology in MCH.”
Abigail Echo-Hawk, MA, delivered a powerful speech. She highlighted the glaring absence of
Native Americans in epidemiological data related to maternal and child health. Abigail spoke
passionately about her community’s struggles when it comes to influencing policy. She pointed
out a frustrating cycle: when she approaches policymakers to advocate for her community, they
often request data to support her claims. However, when she turns to epidemiologists, they
dismiss her community as “too small” to be relevant. This gap in understanding and
representation underscores the urgent need for inclusive data practices in maternal and child
health. Her insights resonated deeply with me, reminding me of all the importance of amplifying
marginalized voices and ensuring that every community’s needs are acknowledged and
addressed.
As I reflect on the conference, I’m filled with inspiration and a renewed commitment to advocate
for maternal and child health and equitable health policies that serve all populations. If you’re
passionate about maternal and child health, I highly recommend attending the next CityMatCH
conference. It’s an invaluable experience that fosters growth, collaboration, and a shared vision
for a healthier future for our cities.
