Black Mothers in San Mateo County Demand Better Maternal Care

REDWOOD CITY — Black mothers, activists and health professionals gathered April 20 to discuss maternal health disparities and demand equitable care in San Mateo County.

Jessica Castaneda, 33 weeks pregnant with twins, described feeling unheard during her pregnancy. Her account anchored a broader conversation about the gaps Black women face in maternal health services.

Participants called for providers to listen to and act on the concerns of Black mothers, seeking concrete changes to ensure fair treatment across the health care system.