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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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We’re celebrating 41 years of advocating for Black women’s health!

It all started with our fearless founder, Byllye Avery, who gathered 2,000 women at Spelman College to empower, educate, and inspire. As we celebrate BWHI Week, we honor the past, embrace the present, and push for a healthier future. “Our Health, Our Power!”

#BWHIWeek #BWHI #BlkWomensHealth #BlackWomensHealth #TheImperative
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Private equity investors are creeping into spaces that should be focused on care, not profits. Hospice centers, meant to provide comfort, dignity, and emotional support for those near the end of life, are now being bought up by private equity firms. A new study in Health Affairs reveals just how these investors are taking over, using complicated ownership structures that leave us questioning who’s really prioritizing our loved ones’ well-being. We deserve better—our elders deserve better. ...

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BWHI Anniversary Week is Coming Up!

Hey sis! Our anniversary week kicks off next week, and this year, it's all about "Our Health is Our Power.” 💪🏾 We are celebrating the strength we find in prioritizing our health, our bodies, and our minds. Join us for a week filled with empowering events, impactful discussions, and resources focused on the power of Black women’s health and well-being. From panels to workshops, it’s all about lifting each other up and reclaiming our power through wellness.

Make sure you join us as we uplift and empower each other through health, knowledge, and action. Because when we take care of ourselves, we stand stronger as a community. 🖤

#BWHIAnniversary #OurHealthIsOurPower #BlkWomensHealth #BlackWomensHealth #TheImperative
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It’s National Voter Registration Day so it’s a perfect time to check out our new 2024 Health Policy Voter’s Guide to see what’s at stake and what’s on the ballot in your state. 🔗 in our bio. Bwhi.org/blackwomenvote

This election is personal. It’s about our health, our bodies, and our future. Everything is on the line. Let’s show up for ourselves! Make sure you are registered to vote!💪🏾

#NationalVoterRegistrationDay #BlackGirlsVote #VoteForHealth #HealthEquity #BWHI #BlkWomensHealth #TheImperative
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We just had to say happy birthday to one of our faves @tamronhall 💜🎊 She has been a supporter of our organization in the past and has always been a champion for women’s health through her platform. #tamronhall ...

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The recent Senate hearings on Georgia's abortion ban reveal a harsh reality: laws are increasingly stripping women of their right to make decisions about their own bodies. With 50% of counties in Georgia already lacking OB-GYNs, access to essential healthcare is critically undermined. We must advocate for the rights and health of all women. #ReproductiveRights #HealthcareAccess #ReproductiveFreedom #ReproductiveHealth #BWHI #BlkWomensHealth #TheImperative ...

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It’s all about celebrating each other’s wins! Last night was a beautiful reminder that we are all sisters at the end of the day. Shout out to the queen @thesherylleeralph for showing love and celebrating @lizacolonzayas_lcz with such grace and support. 🙌🏾 Congratulations to Liza for winning Outstanding supporting actress at the Emmys – 💜#Sisterhood #WeAllWin #Emmys2024 #CelebrateEachOther #BWHI #TheImperative ...

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🗳️ Join us for a pivotal panel discussion on Reproductive Justice and Voter Engagement! Connect with leaders from @blackwomensrj, @birthincolor, @theafiyacenter along with BWHI president @lindagblount as we dive into the vital role of voter registration and community mobilization in advancing reproductive justice.

📅 Date: Monday, September 16 ⏰ Time: 3:00 PM ET 📍 Live on the @blackwomensrj platform

Don’t miss this engaging conversation on the eve of #NationalVoterRegistrationDay. Let’s get empowered and ready to make an impact together! 💪 #RJvoter
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Rest is productive. It’s not just about doing less, it’s about giving your mind and body the chance to recharge, so you can come back stronger. Don’t let hustle culture fool you—taking time to rest is essential for your growth and well-being. You deserve it, sis.

Rp: @fleurdelisspeaks
#RestIsProductive #SelfCare #BlackWomenHealing#BWHI
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We were proud to host these powerful discussions during CBC week in DC!! The Elevating Black Women’s Power and Impact panel series – a powerful event that celebrated the voices, achievements, and influence of Black women across health, leadership, and policy.

@lindagblount
@enviablezsanai
@nzmurph @blackgirlsvote
@giovanteey @blackwomensrj
@boldenforjustice
@mia.keeys @hologic
@mslatoshabrown @blackvotersmtr
Janette Robinson Flint @bw4wla
@muthoniwambukraal
Nourbese Flint @allaboveall
Thanks to @antonicej of @98forward
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Every day, we strive to empower women to take charge of their sexual health with programs like ‘On Our Own Terms’ and ‘I Am HIV Possible,’ teaching that ‘sex’ is not a taboo but a natural part of our health and empowerment. Yet, the recent incident involving Shannon Sharpe’s IG live highlights the persistent double standards in our society. Men often navigate these situations with ease, even humor, while women might face severe consequences for far less. This disparity reminds us that the playing field is far from level. What do you think—would a woman have been treated differently in a similar situation? Let’s talk about it. @sexwithashley #Empowerment #IamHIVPossible #DoubleStandards ...

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RP: @themfactorfilm @tamsenfadal @blackgirlsguidetomenopause

We are excited to share the trailer for “The M Factor: Shredding the Silence on Menopause”

“Menopause is a silent epidemic that affects the health and well-being of millions of American women. In addition to experiencing traumatic physical symptoms, women are struggling with the related stresses of billions of dollars in lost wages, upended careers, family disruptions, and emotional chaos.”

The M Factor Film explores the hidden impact of menopause on women’s lives. With evidence-based information, the film empowers women to make informed health decisions and aims to remove the stigma surrounding menopause and aging.

Check it out on October 17th on @pbs
#MenopauseMatters #WomensHealth #BreakingTheSilence #BWHI #BlkWomensHealth #TheImperative
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Shout out to all the 🤰🏾mamas trying to be productive but their little ones have other plans.

RP: @adriannahopkins you’re making it look good sis!

#BlackMomMagic #StillGettingItDone #MomLife #BWHI #BlkWomensHealth #TheImperative
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No matter where they are in the world, women and girls of African descent are bearing the burden of maternal morbidity and mortality. Thirty years since the adoption of the ICPD Program of Action, significant progress has been made in advancing sexual and reproductive health, rights, and justice globally. However, women and girls of African descent continue to face disproportionate challenges.

Please join the Universal Access Project at the United Nations Foundation; the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA); and the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) on September 18 in New York City for a discussion on the sidelines of the UN General Assembly on bridging the gap on maternal health for women and girls of African descent – including the launch of a new coalition on building transnational solidarity and targeted action for equity in health.
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Today, we honor the memory of Marcy Borders, a survivor of the 9/11 attacks. On September 11, 2001, Marcy was a 28-year-old legal assistant on the 81st floor of the North Tower. Though she survived that tragic day, the lasting effects of 9/11 continued to impact her life. In 2014, she was diagnosed with stomach cancer, facing overwhelming medical bills without consistent work or health insurance. While it was never proven that the dust cloud from the attacks caused her illness, Marcy believed it played a role. Let’s remember her resilience and advocate for the health and support of all survivors.

Rp: @sankfayah_

#NeverForget #911Tribute #MarcyBorders #HonorHerResilience #BlkWomensHealth
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ICYMI: U.S. Surgeon General Vivek Murthy is shining a light on the long list of issues that stress out parents—calling for much-needed policy changes and stronger community support for families and caregivers. For Black women, who often shoulder a disproportionate amount of caregiving, this is especially critical. It’s time we advocate for systems that support our mental health, financial well-being, and overall quality of life.

#BlackMomsMatter #CaregiverSupport #PolicyChange #BlackWomen #FamilySupport #MentalHealthMatters #Bwhi #BlkWomensHealth #TheImperative
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Join us Tomorrow night LIVE ON IG as we dive into an important conversation about living with Type 2 Diabetes hosted by @queeneatznutrition , featuring @coach_tedder and dish Diva @healthy_swag . They’ll be sharing valuable tips, personal stories, and answering your questions about managing diabetes, staying healthy, and taking control of your wellness journey.

#Type2Diabetes #DiabetesAwareness #HealthAndWellness #BlackHealthMatters #BWHI #BlkWomensHealth #TheImperative
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What is PrEP?

HIV activist @sexwithashley is answering all your questions about PrEP and HIV prevention! PrEP is a preventative drug that is helping our community take control of their health and stay protected. Learn more by visiting iamhivpossible.org

#PrEP #HIVPrevention #HIVAwareness #BlackHealthMatters #BWHI #BlkWomensHealth #TheImperative
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Our health is on the line this November! 🗳️✨ This election season is about safeguarding our health, rights, and future. The Black Women’s Health Imperative is here to equip you with the knowledge to make empowered decisions. Our Black Women Vote 2024 Health Policy Voters Guide is now available. ...

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