Believe Birth and EQUATE Network teams hosted the BELIEVE in Black Joy Gala, an evening of supporting and honoring Black Joy and innovators in Black maternal health. This event took place on June 10th, 2023 from 6-10pm ET at the MLK Jr Student Center at St. Augustine’s University (2nd floor)
The night honored those working to improve Black Maternal Health with a special focus on celebrating the BELIEVE Maternal Health Scholarship recipients. This was an evening of celebration, dinner, and fun.
Watch highlights from the event here.
Watch highlights from the Gala:
Storytelling Gallery: Come prepared to listen to stories from mothers and birthing people and share your story to assist with creating more equitable outcomes for all. For those planning to participate/share your story at the event, here are some details we’ll share before you get started. Click to review the consent form.
Dinner and Dessert: We will be serving appetizers, a buffet dinner, dessert, drinks, and more. Vegan and vegetarian options will be served. Dietary options available as well. Here is the Gala menu.
Silent Auction: Come prepared to cast your bid on an array of items. We have everything from art to spa packages. All proceeds will directly fund scholarship recipients.
DocuDance- Reclaiming Power: The Black Maternal Health Crisis: Come prepared to view a documentary-dance short film directed by Keshia Wall and produced by Stephanie Baker.
Announcing Believe Scholarships: The BELIEVE project will announce the three scholarship awardees for students entering the field of Maternal and Child Health (MCH). BELIEVE scholarships are made possible through donations. Please consider making a donation to support the Health Careers Scholars.
Keynote Address: We’ll hear from Former Chief Justice of North Carolina Cheri Beasley and Senator Natalie Murdock. We will hear from partner organizations, a poem, and more.
Photo Booth, Group Photos and Social Media: Please share your experience! We’ll be capturing professional photos, but welcome and encourage lots of social media sharing! Use #BelieveBirth. We do ask: if you are attending with your colleagues, please try to get a group photo of you all! Great virtual and in-person networking opportunities will be available to meet new and familiar faces!
Networking Bingo: Please use these fun Gala bingo cards to get to know other attendees!
Please share event feedback: Click to share feedback about your experience with us!
Ongoing Support: 2024 exhibit and sponsorship opportunities are available. Contact Imani Clark @ imani_clark@med.unc.edu for details.
A lactation room will be available. Additional accommodations made possible and shared via email.
Questions? Contact Kimberly Harper at Kimberly_Harper@med.unc.edu.