The EMBRACE Policy Working Group translates EMBRACE’s research and community partnerships into policy analysis, advocacy, and action on behalf of Black maternal and reproductive health in Allegheny County and across Pennsylvania. In doing so, the Policy Workgroup advances EMBRACE’s vision of maternal and reproductive health equity and justice for Black birthing people.
The Policy Working Group exists to monitor, analyze, and inform state and local policy affecting Black maternal and reproductive health in Pennsylvania, and to connect EMBRACE’s research and community partnerships to policy decision-makers, advocates, and affected communities.
The Policy Working Group is not a lobbying entity. Its role is to build shared analysis, surface community and research evidence, and equip EMBRACE partners and affiliated organizations to engage effectively in policy processes.
Our goals are to:
- Track and analyze state and federal policy, legislation, and administrative action affecting Black maternal and reproductive health in Pennsylvania.
- Translate EMBRACE research findings and community knowledge into accessible policy analysis and recommendations.
- Build shared policy literacy and analytic capacity among EMBRACE researchers, community partners, and birth workers.
- Strengthen bi-directional relationships with community-led and Black-led organizations already engaged in policy advocacy.
- Produce an annual work plan and policy products (briefs, comment letters, testimony support, convenings) that support EMBRACE’s broader mission.