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Better together.

On Our Own Terms (OOOT) is an initiative of the Black Women’s Health Imperative (BWHI). OOOT is an informed network of organizations and experts who are focused on the prevention of HIV for, by and about Black cis and transgender women, as well as the care and treatment of women living with HIV.

Gianna
why now

We simply don’t have time to waste.

According to the latest available data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly 60 percent of all new HIV diagnoses in the US are among Black women. While their rates of infection are finally dropping (by 25 percent), we still have the highest rates among all women. In fact, Black women still have nearly 15 times the rate as their white counterparts, and five times the rate of Latinas. Black women and women of color must finally be a priority in policy and action in the prevention of HIV and other sexually transmitted infections.

Our work combines evidence-based practices, cross-sector collaborations and the strengthening of community assets to lift up the sexual health and well being of Black women. OOOT is highlighting our mutual abilities to deliver innovative solutions and make a lasting investment in prevention.

We’ve teamed up with legendary actress Keshia Knight Pulliam for a PSA urging you to Own Your Ish when it comes to your sexual health!

87%
of Black women living with HIV contracted HIV through heterosexual contact
51%
of HIV diagnoses were among African American Transgender women in 2014.
KESHIA video

Resources & Tools

OOOT Video PHAB cast episode 1
PhabCast Episode 1 Teaser 3
PhabCast Episode 1 Teaser 2

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Today, on National DNA Day, let’s explore what your family health history reveals about your DNA. Understanding the genetic ties within our families is crucial—not just out of curiosity, but as a proactive step in managing health and preventing diseases that disproportionately affect Black women. We recognize that some people may not know their full family health history, but there are other ways you can learn about your DNA and its impact on your health. Let’s start these important conversations and use available resources to promote health across generations.

For more resources on this powerful topic visit blackgenesmatter.info to learn more. Link in bio #NationalDNADay #BlackWomensHealth
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"Did you know? Better heart health can lead to better brain function, especially for our mid-aged Black queens!

According to a study published today in the Journal of the American Heart Association, better heart health can lead to better brain function in middle-aged Black women. This research underscores the importance of prioritizing our heart health for overall wellness.

Let's take care of our hearts and minds!

Click the link in our bio to read the full study done by the American Heart Association

#HeartHealth #BrainFunction #BlackWomenHealth"
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Confidence looks good on every body! Embrace who you are and do what you want, regardless of your body type. You deserve to live boldly and unapologetically.

@samlovesgym keep being confident, healthy and healed sis!
Thank you @pointe__black for providing judgement free spaces for our people.

#BodyConfidence #LoveYourself #BeYou #BWHI #BlackGirlMagic #BlackExcellence #MelaninMagic #BlackIsBeautiful #BodyPositivity #SelfLove #BlackWomenEmpowerment #CelebrateYourCurves
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Exciting news! ‘I am HIV Possible’ by BWHI has won the 2024 PrEPpy Award! This initiative has been instrumental in raising awareness and promoting the possibilities of living with HIV. Congratulations to everyone involved!

#HIVPrevention #PrEPpyAward #BWHI
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Everyone deserves a taste of something delicious! No matter where you come from, good, fresh pastries are for everyone to enjoy. Treat yourself!

@jetaimepatisserie 🙌🏾🙌🏾💪🏾💪🏾

#PastriesForAll #SweetTreats”
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Sis, our dreams are worth it! Let’s prioritize our health to keep shining. Whether it’s staying active, eating right, or getting regular check-ups, let’s do what we need to live our best lives. Our bodies are our temples, and they deserve our care and attention.

Thank you @seekwisdompcw and @blackenterprise for this reminder!
#HealthIsWealth #DreamBig #BlackGirlMagic
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The Commonwealth Fund's 2024 Health Disparities report is a wake-up call: racial health disparities exist in every state, even those with robust healthcare systems. This emphasizes the urgent need for targeted action to address systemic inequities. We need to work together to ensure health equity for all.

"Our hope is that policymakers, health system leaders, and community stakeholders will use this tool to investigate the impact of current and past health policies on different racial and ethnic groups and to take steps to ensure an equitable health care system for the future." (Authors: David C. Radley, Arnav Shah, Sara R. Collins, Neil R. Powe, Laurie C. Zephyrin)

Click the link in our bio to read the full Commonwealth Fund 2024 Health Disparities Report

#HealthDisparities #HealthEquity #CommonwealthFund
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Research can be inspiring, invigorating, healing, and fun. For Black Maternal Health Week, BWHI partnered with Noelene K. Jeffers @drnoelenejeffers an Assistant Professor @hopkinsnursing and Certified Nurse Midwife to create a World Cafe event where policymakers, healthcare providers, doulas, and advocates worked together to focus on solutions. We enjoyed good music, food, and a bit of play to help us dream and design the future of comprehensive holistic maternal healthcare.

#BlackMaternalHealthWeek #BMHW #BlackMamasMatter
#MaternalHealth #BlackMaternalHealth #MaternalJustice
#BlackWomen #BlackMothers
#HealthEquity #ReproductiveJustice #BlackMaternalMortality #BMMA
#BlackMaternalHealthMatters
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Finally, progress!

A racially biased test denying thousands of Black people kidney transplants is switching to race-free evaluations when caluclating kidney function. This is a crucial step toward equity in healthcare. We must ensure equitable access to healthcare for all, regardless of race.

Thanks to Jazmin Evans for keeping us updated through her own healthy journey! Her courage and openness is inspiring!

#HealthEquity #EndRacismInHealthcare #blackhealthmatters
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This Black Maternal Health Week, we celebrate promising news as Serena Williams and Elaine Welteroth announce the launch of the birthFUND initiative, aimed at improving maternal health care. The birthFUND mission focuses on removing financial barriers and expanding access to midwifery care, ensuring that quality birth support is affordable for families across the country. Additionally, they are advocating for broader insurance coverage and acceptance of midwifery, a critical step recognized by the World Health Organization as essential in preventing over 80% of maternal and neonatal deaths.

Join us in supporting these transformative efforts to secure a healthier future for all mothers. Learn more about this initiative at the link in our bio. #BMHW #BlackWomensHealth #midwives
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Imagine if you had 2 sisters that were doctors. Well that is what it is like watching the powerful new show #UrbanMDTV! 🎉 It is a game changer for the culture with @dr.aprilspencer and @drLaurenpowell curating real conversations about health, bringing fresh and unique perspectives to medical issues that affect us. There’s truly nothing like it! Don’t miss out on the groundbreaking 1st episode on @foxsoul Monday April 15th 6PM EST! 🚑💖 #NewShowAlert #Medicalinspiration #blackdoctors #blackwomendoctors #blackwomenshealth ...

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Representation Matters!

Media and marketing industries perpetuate ableism by excluding people with disabilities from their narratives. It’s time for inclusive storytelling that reflects the diversity of human experience.

Let’s work together to break down barriers and create a more inclusive world.

Keep creating @rollinfunky We Love It!

#RepresentationMatters #AbleismAwareness
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Perhaps you need this word today from sister @rachel.cargle if you’re feeling overwhelmed because of the undue pressure you are putting on yourself. This may be your sign to ease up a bit. 💙💙 #selfcareisntselfish #mentalhealthmatters ...

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We love everything about this @myblackgirlroots 💜💜 She’s training the next generation of healthy eaters. 🙌🏾🙌🏾🙌🏾 Drop a heart if you love Chia seeds as much as we do. @myblackgirlroots breaks down why she loves them below
・・・
5 Reasons Why We Love Chia Seeds 👶🏽🌱 (Chia Seed Jam🍓🫐🍅)

I love using chia seeds! 🙌🏽 When I first transitioned to a plant based diet, I had no earthly idea of how to eat chia seeds except throwing them in top of a smoothie bowl or regular smoothie. You can do so much more with them, like our chia seed jam that only requires 4 ingredients! 😁

1️⃣Packed with Protein - Just 2 tablespoons of chia seeds provide 4g of quality plant-based protein to help kids grow strong.
2️⃣Loaded with Fiber - Chia seeds are an excellent source of fiber, which supports healthy digestion for little tummies.
3️⃣Bursting with Omega-3s - These tiny seeds are one of the best vegan sources of anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids for brain health.
4️⃣Full of Antioxidants - Chia seeds are rich in antioxidants that help protect cells from damage and support the immune system.
5️⃣Fun & Versatile - Kids love the satisfying crunch of chia seeds, which can be sprinkled on oatmeal, non-dairy yogurt, and smoothies. It also can be used as an egg substitute in baking, chia seed pudding, jams, and more!

Be sure to not overeat them before they are high in fiber and too much can irritate some people’s stomachs. I’ve never had this issue though. They also should be either soaked in water before use or on a dish it can absorb in like smoothie or yogurt to be properly absorbed.👍🏽

Watch the full tutorial and recipe right now on my YouTube channel! Comment RECIPE and I’ll send you the link! 😊

Like this video & share it with another vegan mom! ☺️💚🤱🏽

#veganmom #vegantoddler
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📢 It’s Black Maternal Health Week and we are bringing the fellas into the conversation. Join us for a thought-provoking webinar moderated by @marclamonthill today at 4:30 pm ET. 🗓️⁠

Let’s dive into the transformative roles men play in restoring Black autonomy & joy. 💪 Don’t miss this empowering dialogue – secure your spot now!
tinyurl.com/bmhwpanel

#BMHW24 #BlackMamasMatter #BlackMaternalHealthWeek #ReproJustice #BirthEquity #BlackAutonomy #BWHSocialJustice #BirthJustice #MaternalEquity #BlackMaternalHealth #BirthEquity #BlackWomenLead #ENDMaternalMortality #BMHW2024
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During Black Maternal Health Week, let’s remember that HIS health matters too. Black fathers play a crucial role in supporting Black maternal health. Together, we can ensure every Black family thrives.

@paging.dr.dre

#BlackMaternalHealthWeek #HISHealthMattersToo #BMHW24 #BlackMamasMatter #ReproJustice #BirthEquity #BlackAutonomy #BWHSocialJustice #BirthJustice #MaternalEquity #BlackMaternalHealth #BirthEquity #BlackWomenLead #ENDMaternalMortality #BMHW2024
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This week, we uplift the voices and experiences of Black mothers, shining a light on the disparities in maternal health that disproportionately affect Black women.

We stand in solidarity with all mothers, birthing people, and their families impacted by these disparities, and we commit to advocating for policies and practices that ensure every they all receive the quality care and support they deserve.

We are joining forces with @BlackMamasMatter (BMMA) to center Black women’s scholarship, maternity care work, and advocacy across the full-spectrum of sexual, maternal, and
reproductive health care, services, programs, and initiatives. Learn more at blackmamasmatter.org/bmhw

#BMHW24 #BlackMaternalHealthWeek #BMHW2024 #BlackMamasMatter
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📢 It’s Black Maternal Health Week and we are bringing the fellas into the conversation. Join us for a thought-provoking webinar moderated by @marclamonthill this Thursday, April 11th at 4:30 pm ET. 🗓️⁠

Let’s dive into the transformative roles men play in restoring Black autonomy & joy. 💪 Don’t miss this empowering dialogue – secure your spot now!
tinyurl.com/bmhwpanel

#BMHW24 #BlackMamasMatter #BlackMaternalHealthWeek #ReproJustice #BirthEquity #BlackAutonomy #BWHSocialJustice #BirthJustice #MaternalEquity #BlackMaternalHealth #BirthEquity #BlackWomenLead #ENDMaternalMortality #BMHW2024
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📣Our classes are starting now, and they are at no cost to you!! Thats right @marie_bustinmoves it might be time for you to see if you are at risk of type 2 diabetes. Our Diabetes Prevention Program can help you prevent or delay diabetes and learn to:

✅ Reduce chronic stress
✅ Monitor blood glucose
✅ Manage mid-life weight
✅ Build a team of support
✅ Respond to food triggers
✅ Get support for lifestyle shift
✅ Understand role of weight meds
✅ Make a lifestyle shift

If you qualify, our program is no cost to you!! 🙌🏾🙌🏾 See if it’s right for you at:
bit.ly/CYL2RISKTEST

And if you already have type 2 diabetes, our Diabetes Self-Management Support Program can help you:

✅ Monitor blood glucose
✅ Build a team of support
✅ Manage medications
✅ Prevent Complications
✅ Make a lifestyle shift

Invite a friend or family member for support and sign up at: bit.ly/DIABETESCYL2
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It’s Black Maternal Health week and this is why it matters!
@themamasdenpodcast, midwife @kimberlydurdin is truly highlighting the gaps in postpartum care and some of the setbacks within healthcare that we face specifically as Black mamas. This is one of the reasons why we are so proud of our Nourish program that trains postpartum doulas.

Thank you @blacklove for this compelling content. #blackmaternalhealthweek #BMHW24
#BlackMamasMatter
#BlackMaternalHealthWeek
#ReproJustice
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