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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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​Meet us at Georgia State Capitol!

We're hosting a screening of our award-winning documentary, 'Me Period,' at the Georgia State Capitol. Join us on March 26 from 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM as we continue our mission to foster open conversations about menstrual health.​

'Me Period' explores the beauty and complexity of how Black families navigate discussions about puberty, menstruation, and health discovery. The film features everyday mothers and daughters, as well as celebrity appearances by Sheryl Lee Ralph and Tabitha Brown with their daughters. ​

This event is hosted by State Representative Park Cannon and aims to promote understanding and break the stigma surrounding menstrual health. ​

We invite the community to attend and engage in this important conversation. meperiodfilmmarch26.rsvpify.com
🔗 in our bio

#MePeriod #BWHI #MenstrualHealth #GeorgiaStateCapitol #OpenConversations #BlackFamilies"
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How do you make time to move in your busy week? 👀

Do you do a morning stretch, a lunchtime walk, or dance to your favorite playlist while you cook—either way, every bit counts! Share your tips for fitting in exercise and staying motivated, because we know it’s not always easy!

For more ways to get the recommended 150 minutes of movement per week, click the link in our bio. Let’s keep moving, ladies! 💜 #MoveMatters #StayActive #Black#WomensHealth #BWHI #TheImperative
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Finding a doctor who actually cares and takes your symptoms seriously (not just brushing it off as stress) makes all the difference. It’s so important to have a healthcare provider who listens, understands, and is genuinely invested in your well-being.

Compassionate care can change your whole experience with health, and we deserve nothing less. If your doctor isn’t listening to you, don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself. 💜

📸: @cassiedamsel

#BlackWomensHealth #BWHI #TheImperative
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At BWHI, we know policy changes are coming at us from all directions, but we’re here to help make sense of it all. While federal policies may shift, we hold power in our communities. Two major issues to stay focused on:

1️⃣ The potential dismantling of the Department of Education, which could affect access to quality education and resources for our children.
2️⃣ Proposed changes to Medicaid, which could limit access to critical healthcare services for Black women and families.

Click the link in our bio to read more about these issues and how we can make an impact locally in our communities.
#ThePolicyImperative #BlackWomensHealth #BWHI #TheImperative
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Since “Where them fans at?” is stuck in everyone’s head, might as well get a workout in while we groove! 💃🏾🔥 @Justbnfit, we’re loving this new twist, using exercise bands while we dance! 🙌🏾

Did you know adults need 150 minutes of movement per week? Whether it’s a quick 5-minute dance break or a 30-minute jog, it all adds up! 🏃🏾‍♀️

Wondering how to add more physical activity into your life? Check out the CDC’s Moving Matter initiative for more resources. 🔗 Link in bio!

#GetMoving #MovingMatters #BlackWomensHealth #BWHI #TheImperative
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A new bill in Tennessee could allow healthcare providers, including doctors and pharmacists, to deny treatment based on their personal beliefs—which could include birth control. This means a woman could be denied essential healthcare because of someone else's views, potentially putting her health at risk.

We cannot let personal beliefs jeopardize a woman’s access to the care she needs, especially when it comes to reproductive health. Women should have the right to make decisions about their bodies without fear of discrimination or denial of service.

Every woman deserves to make her own choices regarding her health. Click the link in our bio to learn more.
#AccessToCare #ReproductiveRights #BlackWomensHealth #BWHI #TheImperative
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🙌🏾💃🏾 There’s no better feeling than knowing you’re healthy, thriving, and on top of your game.

Ladies, don’t skip those appointments—your health is everything! Take care of yourself, because you deserve it! 💪🏾 #HealthyAndThriving #BlackWomenHealth #BWHI #TheImperative
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Ladies, let’s talk about colorectal cancer. Did you know that Black women are at a higher risk for colorectal cancer, and we tend to be diagnosed at younger ages? It’s important that we don’t ignore the signs and prioritize our health by getting regular screenings. Early detection can save lives, and screenings are the key to catching things early before they get worse.

So, don’t wait for symptoms—take control of your health and get screened. It’s time to break the silence and get informed. Your health matters and you deserve to live your best life, so make sure you're doing everything you can to stay on top of it.
📸 : @NPR
#ColorectalCancerAwareness #BlackWomensHealth #BWHI #TheImperative
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Today, we celebrate the incredible mother-daughter duo, Rev. Dr. Cecelia Williams Bryant and Dr. Thema Bryant, whose contributions to the health and wellness of Black communities are truly transformative.

Rev. Dr. Cecelia Williams Bryant was a spiritual leader, educator, and visionary who dedicated her life to empowering Black families and communities. She established women's resource and development centers and schools for children around the world. Now, her daughter, @dr.thema is continuing that legacy, breaking barriers as a clinical psychologist, professor, and advocate for trauma recovery and social justice.

Together, they embody the power of generational strength, healing, and resilience. 🙌🏾
#WomensHistoryMonth #AngelaDavis #BlackWomensHealth #BWHI #TheImperative
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Did you know your risk for fractures isn’t just about aging—it’s influenced by medical conditions, medications, menopause, and family history? Black Americans are less likely to be screened for osteoporosis or receive treatment, yet more likely to have chronic conditions that weaken bones.

🚺 Women are especially at risk!

During menopause, estrogen levels drop, leading to bone loss, osteoporosis, and a higher risk of fractures. Plus, women’s bones tend to be smaller and less dense than men’s, making them more vulnerable.

🩺 Check on your bone health today! Take the @bonehealthandosteoporosis (BHOF) quiz to learn your risk: 🔗 in our bio

📺 Watch Now! The Why Healthy Bones Matter for the Black Community™ session is now available on-demand: 🔗 in our bio
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BWHI, Black Women For Wellness @bw4wla, Reinvent South Stockton Coalition, and California State University Stanislaus, Stockton Campus are excited to announce a special screening "Me Period" on March 15, 2025, at the California State University Stanislaus, Stockton Campus, Room 1014 in Stockton. Doors open at 11am; Screening begins at 12:00 PM

This FREE screening will be followed by a panel discussion moderated by Community Liaison, Kimberly Robinson.

Me Period dives deep into the intimate and often taboo conversations surrounding menstruation, puberty, and health discovery in Black communities. The film shines a light on how intergenerational discussions, health education, and the lived experiences of everyday families—and celebrity mothers like Sheryl Lee Ralph and Tabitha Brown—can reshape the way Black girls and their families navigate these sensitive topics.

click the 🔗 in our bio to rsvp!

#MePeriod #BlackWomensHealth #BWHI #TheImperative
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The USDA’s recent decision to cancel $1 billion in

The USDA’s recent decision to cancel $1 billion in funding to schools and food banks is a direct hit to Black communities and low-income families, who are already grappling with high rates of food insecurity. This cut jeopardizes nutritious meals for children, as school meal programs and community food banks relied heavily on these funds to provide fresh, local produce and support for those in need.

In Black communities, where food deserts and economic disparities are prevalent, this funding loss will deepen the divide in access to healthy food. Many Black families depend on these programs for their daily nutrition, and now, local farmers, especially small, minority-owned farms, will lose a significant market for their produce.

#FoodSecurity #BlackWomensHealth #BWHI #TheImperative
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On the eve of World Rare Disease Day, our Rare Disease Diversity Coalition (RDDC) hosted its 2nd Annual RISE Awards and 3rd Annual Rare Disease Day Reception. A powerful evening recognizing the people and organizations making an impact in the rare disease community.

Hosted by award-winning journalist Adrianna Hopkins , the event celebrated the dedication of leaders working to improve care and outcomes for underserved patients. As RDDC approaches its 5th anniversary, the momentum in rare disease advocacy continues to grow.

A highlight of the night was Senator Amy Klobuchar receiving the 2025 Congressional RISE Award for her unwavering support of rare disease policy and patient care. In her emotional speech, she emphasized the need for more funding for NIH research and stronger support for developing life-saving treatments. She also raised concerns about how public servant layoffs are affecting research, clinical trials, and access to care, putting rare disease patients at risk.

Thank you to everyone who attended and continues to advocate for change in the rare disease space!

Watch the recap, 🔗 in our bio
#RareDiseaseDay #RISEAwards #RDDC #PatientCare #RareDiseaseAdvocacy BWHI
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Black women are disproportionately affected by HIV. According to the CDC, Black women account for 60% of all new HIV diagnoses among women in the U.S., even though we only make up about 14% of the female population. This stark health disparity demands urgent attention and action.

At BWHI, we’re committed to the prevention, care, and treatment of HIV in Black women. We’re working tirelessly to break down the barriers to care, increase access to vital resources, and ensure that our sisters have the support they need to live healthy, thriving lives and make sure every Black woman has the information, tools, and care she needs to stay HIV-free and live without fear or stigma.

If you are a community-based organization, advocate, policymaker, or anyone who is engaged in HIV prevention and care and would like to get and share resources on topics regarding HIV prevention and Care, Click the link in our bio.

#HIVAwareness #IamHIVPossible #OnOurOwnTerms #BlackWomensHealth #BWHI #TheImperative
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POV: Breaking down the barriers of stigma and uplifting our sisters in the fight for better health and dignity...🙌🏾💪🏾

Today, on National Women and Girls HIV/AIDS Awareness Day, let’s remember that Black women living with HIV deserve our support, love, and understanding.

"Your presence, your listening ear, and your willingness to stand beside her—without stigma or shame—are invaluable." @ladeiajoyce

It’s time to create a community where women living with HIV feel empowered, respected, and supported every single day.

If you need HIV prevention resources visit iamhivpossible.org

📸 : @ladeiajoyce

#HIVAwarenes #iamhivpossible #BlackWomensHealth #BWHI #TheImperative
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As Black women, we often carry so much—caring for others, working hard, balancing everything—and it’s easy to forget to take time for ourselves. This day is a reminder to pause, recharge, and give ourselves the love and care we deserve.

Take this time to focus on YOU. Whether it’s a peaceful moment of reflection, a relaxing activity, or simply some quiet space, remember that your well-being matters. You deserve to pause and nurture yourself in the midst of it all.

#SelfCare #DayOfRest #MentalHealthMatters #BlackWomensHealth #BWHI #TheImperative
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The strength and resilience of @purpose_01 is nothing short of incredible. After being told she would never walk again due to a spinal cord injury, she’s not only walking—she’s thriving and doing the things! 💪🏾 Her journey is a powerful reminder that Women’s History Month isn’t just about celebrating the big victories, but also the daily triumphs we make over adversity.

Black women continue to defy the odds and show the true meaning of resilience. 🙌🏾 #WomensHistoryMonth #WHM #BlackWomensHealth #BWHI #TheImperative
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On this International Women’s Day we are honoring the powerful legacy of Black women who paved the way—like our founder, Byllye Avery—who remains a force for change today. Her lifelong commitment to advancing Black women’s health and amplifying our voices isn’t just history; it’s a movement she continues to lead. We are the next chapter of her story, building on her vision by advocating, uplifting, and taking action in our communities.

Let’s keep pushing forward—through social media, conversations, and real change—so that Black women’s contributions are seen, valued, and prioritized at every level. The work isn’t finished, and the future is in our hands.

#WomensHistoryMonth #BlackWomensHealth #BWHI #TheImperative
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Heavy and painful cycles are not normal—they’re your body’s way of giving a warning sign. 🚨Those are the symptoms, sis!

If you’re experiencing this, it’s time to listen to your body and seek help. Don’t ignore the signs, you don’t have to suffer in silence.

Shoutout to @coachgessie and @angelayee for encouraging women to advocate for their health.

#blackwomenshealth #BWHI #TheImperative
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