MISSION
Black Mothers in Power seeks to dismantle systems of power to eradicate the racial health disparities that harm Black birthing people and Black babies throughout Delaware - while building new systems of care, healing, and power designed by and for us.
At BMIP, we view “Mother” as a liberatory and expansive identity - not confined by gender, biology, or traditional roles. We honor all who birth, nurture, protect, and reimagine. Not all who give birth are mothers, and not all mothers give birth. We make space for them all.
Whether you are a Drag Mother, Earth Mother, Mother of Dragons, or any form of divine creation - BMIP sees you, honors you, and builds with you.
VISION
Black Mothers in Power envisions building a state where Black birthing people are informed, in control of their own bodies, and cared for—both within the current oppressive system and in the liberatory systems we’ve created for ourselves.
Unapologetically Black: We are unapologetic in centering Black women in our work. Our foundation is rooted in the rich spectrum of many Black ideologies, including Afrocentrism, Black revolutionary thought, Black Womanism, Black radicalism, Black Feminism, Afrocentricity, Black liberation, and Pan-Africanism.
VALUES
Our values represent the core beliefs that guide our mission and vision. These principles ensure we remain grounded in our purpose as we serve our community.
Significant Impact: We are an action-oriented organization that aims to address critical needs for Black mothers. Impact is at the core of all our programming.
Unapologetically Black: We are unapologetic in centering Black women and marginalized populations in our work. Our foundation is rooted in the rich spectrum of Black ideologies, including Afrocentrism, Black Womanism, Black liberation, and Pan-Africanism.
Center Those Most Impacted: The voices and leadership of the most marginalized Black birthing people are integral to every level of our organization, ensuring their needs and perspectives guide our work.
Intersectionality: We recognize and address how overlapping systems of oppression—such as racism, sexism, and classism—affect Black communities. Our work is rooted in the human rights framework of reproductive justice.
Norms: Our Guiding Principles
Our norms reflect the behaviors and expectations we hold ourselves accountable to as we work toward fulfilling our mission. These principles ensure that our day-to-day actions align with our values.
Build a Culture of Joy and Community: Social change work is challenging, but we believe in cultivating joy, appreciation, and meaningful connections along the way.
Build a Team That Takes Pride in Their Work: We strive to leave every space and interaction better than we found it. We do HEART work, and it requires dedication.
Improve Our Skills and Knowledge: Personal and collective growth is essential. We invest in leadership development, coaching, and continuous learning.
Teach and Collaborate: Everyone has something valuable to contribute. We create spaces for mutual teaching and learning to achieve our shared goals.
Challenge Ourselves and Others to Grow: Through honest and supportive feedback, we foster individual and organizational growth.
Foster an Action-Oriented Culture: We emphasize consistent action and follow-through, ensuring that ideas lead to meaningful outcomes.
We Are All Changemakers and Pacesetters: Each of us is committed to transforming the Black maternal health landscape, embodying the change we want to see.
Develop Broad-Based Leadership: Leadership is a shared responsibility. We prepare ourselves and others to take on new challenges and roles within the organization.
Developing Leaders: Feedback and open communication are critical. We encourage all voices to contribute to the growth of our organization and its mission.
BMIP Focus Areas
Three Focus Areas Driving Care, Power & Systems Change
Black Mothers In Power (BMIP) serves all people, with a focused commitment to Black families due to the ongoing racial disparities in maternal, postpartum, and family health. Grounded in reproductive justice, BMIP combines direct service, education, and organizing to meet immediate needs while building long-term, liberatory systems of care.
Community Awareness & Resource Access
Information, access, and navigation - without barriers
BMIP ensures individuals and families have the knowledge, tools, and connections needed to navigate pregnancy, postpartum, parenting, and life challenges - particularly where systems routinely fail Black families.
Education, Resources & Services Include:
Community education on maternal health, postpartum care, infant feeding, and maternal mental health
Connections to maternal, postpartum, and family support services
Black Medical Professionals Directory (Delaware-based)
Rental and utility assistance resource navigation
Relief Fund & Food Pantry Program, including a community outdoor fridge
Bail fund and legal defense assistance
Ongoing outreach through text messaging and newsletter
Community Programming
Direct services, healing-centered care, and workforce development
BMIP designs and operates programs that support families across the full reproductive and parenting journey - while building Black-led infrastructure and economic opportunity.
Core Programs Include:
Sankofa Doula Training & Certification Program - Building a strong, Black-led maternal care workforce
Postpartum Justice Program - Wraparound support during the critical postpartum period
Family Support Services - Support for families experiencing domestic violence and substance use dependency
Housing Support - Safe, stable housing for pregnant and parenting people
Community workshops, healing spaces, and educational events
Development of Delaware’s first Black-led, midwife-led Birth Center & Postpartum Justice Center
Community Organizing & Policy Advocacy
Changing the conditions - not just responding to crisis
BMIP organizes to address the root causes of racial health inequities by building political education, leadership, and collective power to hold systems accountable.
Advocacy & Organizing Includes:
Policy advocacy for Medicaid and private insurance reimbursement for doulas and lactation services
Organizing for expanded maternal mental health, postpartum, and family care access
Coalition-building with reproductive justice, birth justice, and Black-led organizations
Political education rooted in Black history, Black liberation movements, and reproductive justice
Community mobilization for public comment, legislative advocacy, and civic engagement
Black Mothers In Power’s 5-Year Strategic Plan (2025–2029)
At Black Mothers In Power, we are committed to fighting for Black birthing people and families in Delaware. We know the challenges our community faces - high maternal mortality rates, systemic racism in healthcare, and lack of access to quality care.
That’s why we are proud to share our 5-Year Strategic Plan (2025–2029) - a bold roadmap to expand Doula care, improve birthing outcomes, and push for real change in Delaware.
We Need Your Voice!
Your input is valuable as we move from planning to action. We invite you to review the plan and share your thoughts, ideas, and questions. Together, we can ensure this plan truly serves Black mothers and families in Delaware.
Next Steps:
✔ Review the plan and share your feedback (by [insert deadline, if applicable])
✔ Suggest ways to strengthen our work
✔ Let us know if you want to be involved in making this vision a reality
This is our fight. Our future. Our community. Your voice matters in shaping the next chapter of Black maternal health in Delaware. Thank you for standing with us in this fight for justice, equity, and safe births for Black mothers and families in Delaware.