An Evening of Film, Public Health and Community Action
Maternal and infant health outcomes remain a critical public health priority across the United States and in California. While California has made meaningful progress in reducing maternal mortality overall, disparities in maternal health and birth outcomes continue to affect families across racial and ethnic groups.
In San Mateo County, these inequities are also reflected in local data. Black infants experience higher rates of preterm birth, low birth weight, and other adverse birth outcomes compared to other racial and ethnic groups.
In San Mateo County, these inequities are also reflected in local data. Black infants experience higher rates of preterm birth, low birth weight, and, most notably, infant mortality than any other racial or ethnic group in the County. At the same time, Latina mothers also experience high infant mortality rates in the County. These local trends highlight the importance of addressing disparities at the County level to ensure all families have equitable opportunities for healthy pregnancies and births.
Addressing these challenges requires coordinated efforts across healthcare systems, public health agencies, and community-based organizations. In San Mateo County, improving maternal health equity presents an important opportunity to strengthen prevention strategies, improve the quality of care, and expand culturally responsive support for pregnant and postpartum residents.
On Thursday, April 16, 2026, join Supervisor Lisa Gauthier and San Mateo County Health for a free screening of the PBS documentary The Risk of Giving Birth, a powerful film that highlights the experiences of Black mothers and the systemic inequities contributing to maternal health disparities.
Following the screening, Supervisor Gauthier will moderate a conversation with the film’s Executive Producer Stacy Waters and Editor Christa Collins to discuss the film and the urgent issues it raises. The evening will then continue with a panel discussion moderated by Chyvonne Washington of San Mateo County’s Black Infant Health Program featuring healthcare providers and community advocates.
While this event centers Black Maternal Health, it is part of a broader countywide conversation about maternal health outcomes for all families. We are beginning by focusing on Black maternal health, where disparities are well documented, as a starting point for deeper dialogue, partnership, and action to improve outcomes across communities.
“Events like this film screening and conversation matter because they bring real stories and data into the community, helping us understand how we can improve Black maternal health outcomes locally,” Supervisor Gauthier said. “It’s an opportunity for residents, providers and leaders to come together - to listen, learn, and begin building solutions collaboratively."
Event Details
Thursday, April 16, 2026
5:00 p.m – 8:00 p.m.
Cinemark Century Theater
825 Middlefield Road
Redwood City, CA 94061
Admission is free, registration is required as space is limited. Every registered guest will receive a complimentary grab-and-go dinner.
Black Maternal Health Week is observed annually to raise awareness about the disparities that Black mothers face during pregnancy and childbirth. In the United States, Black women experience significantly higher rates of pregnancy-related complications and maternal mortality.
Community members, sponsors and partners are encouraged to participate.
For sponsorship opportunities, contact Vanessa Smith at vsmith1@smcgov.org.
Registration
Registration is required as space is limited.