What is it like to enter the healthcare system while Black?

For centuries, Black Americans have seen and experienced an alternative healthcare system—if we have access to the system in the first place—rife with sub-optimal treatment due to a lack of respect, belief and value attributed to our voices and our pain. We have countless stories to tell that describe how this system has failed us, often at times of most need. We've created this space to share our experiences, in our own words, to expose the gaps, biases and systemic failures that keep Black folk out of hospitals and out of optimal care.

If you’re interested in joining the movement and submitting or posting a video but have questions about how, email iman@iwesnola.org or check out this document with basic information, tips & suggested prompts.

 VIDEOS

IWES' Founder/CEO speaks out about an experience she had in a hospital in 2013 when her humanity-and her symptoms-was ignored because she's Black.

Don Francis speaks about an experience when a life hung in the balance, all because of an incorrect assumption. #ThisIsWhyWeDie

 

NARRATIVES

“My Black Birth Story” by India King Robins

“My Black Birth Story” by India King Robins

"Dismissed & Disposable - My Postpartum Story" by Courtney Spinks

"Dismissed & Disposable - My Postpartum Story" by Courtney Spinks