California Black Women's Collective Empowerment Institute
using her voice
Her Story, Her Strength: Our Motherhood Journey
Welcome to the "Having Her Say" Black Mothers Narrative project—a powerful space for Black mothers like us to share our stories, build community, and uplift one another. This initiative by the California Black Women's Collective Empowerment Institute is all about us: our voice, our experiences, and our journeys. We know that being a mom of young children means facing unique challenges, but it also brings unmatched joy, growth and fulfillment. Here, we celebrate those moments and create a community where our stories matter.
This platform isn’t just about storytelling; it’s about building power, providing resources, and offering support. Whether it’s tips for navigating early childhood, finding balance, or connecting with other mothers who get it, we’re here to walk this path with you. Together, we amplify the beauty, strength, and resilience of Black motherhood. Let’s rise, share, and grow—because our story is worth telling, and our power is unstoppable.
The Having Her Say: Black Mothers Narrative initiative, sponsored by First 5 LA, is a project of the California Black Women's Collective Empowerment Institute.
She Said
Discover the powerful stories of Black women as they open up about their motherhood journey's — their challenges, victories, and dreams for the future.
Each story is a testament to their resilience, strength, and the unbreakable bond they share with their children.
Dive into these narratives and find inspiration, connection, and the power of community.
Insights about us
What we learned
Supporting Black mothers of children ages 0-5 in California, requires addressing barriers to access to healthcare, childcare, family services and economic support, with an emphasis on cultural competency and equity.
64%
Demographics
Population: Black women make up approximately 5.6% of California’s female population.
Household Structure: About 64% of Black mothers are single parents, which is higher than the state average across other racial/ethnic groups.
13%
Health and Well-being
Maternal Mortality: Black women in California are three to four times more likely to die from
Preterm Birth Rates: Black mothers have the highest preterm birth rates in the state, with rates around 13%, compared to a statewide average of 8.6%.
Access to Prenatal Care: Only about 71% of Black women receive timely prenatal care, compared to 85% of white women in California.
26%
Economic Conditions
Poverty Levels: About 26% of Black children in California live in poverty, highlighting the economic challenges many Black mothers face.
Employment: Black mothers have a higher labor force participation rate, but they often hold lower-wage jobs and face higher unemployment rates than other groups.
Mental Health
Higher Stress Levels: Black mothers experience higher stress levels due to systemic racism, economic pressures, and healthcare disparities.
Postpartum Depression: Black mothers are less likely to receive mental health support, though they have similar or higher rates of postpartum depression compared to other groups.
89%
Educational Attainment
Graduation Rates: About 89% of Black women in California complete high school, but only about 24% obtain a bachelor’s degree or higher.
Early Childhood Education: Black children are less likely to attend high-quality preschool programs, affecting early educational outcomes.
Get in Touch
California Black Women’s Collective Empowerment Institute
(310) 817-4645