Mothers, families, and health advocates came together for the inaugural Maternal Health Summit, an empowering event dedicated to addressing the maternal health crisis in the United States. Presented by Project Pit, an innovative partnership platform that bridges entertainment and social impact, alongside Los Angeles County Supervisor Holly Mitchell, the event transformed the Baldwin Hills Crenshaw Plaza into a hub for dialogue, healing, and advocacy.
The summit honored Grammy-nominated artist and actress Halle Bailey, Grammy-winning singer-songwriter and Ryder’s Room, Inc. founder Faith Evans, and Dr. Nomsa Khalfani, Co-CEO of Essential Access Health, for their leadership and advocacy in reshaping narratives around maternal and child wellness.
Faith Evans received the Impact Award for her commitment to supporting children and families with disabilities and special needs. In her remarks, she shared, “I am very honored to stand here just for being a mother, let alone being a mother to a child of special needs.” Faith continued, speaking about her 18-year-old son, Ryder, who is on the autism spectrum and inspired her to launch her nonprofit, Ryder’s Room, dedicated to autism and special needs awareness.
Faith’s advocacy through Ryder’s Room was further recognized with multiple honors, including an Appreciation Certificate from Los Angeles County Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell, a Recognition Certificate from Mayor Karen Bass, commendations from Councilwoman Heather Hutt and U.S. Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager-Dove, and an award from State Assemblymember Sade Elhawary of the 57th District.
Halle Bailey was honored with the Halo Award, named after her son, for using her platform to raise awareness about postpartum depression and maternal mental health. In her remarks, she expressed gratitude as she steps into her 25th year, reflecting on her journey into motherhood and the power of support from other women.
Hallie shared, "What has helped me most is knowing there are other beautiful women and mothers who have gone through the same things I’m experiencing now. Because I have a platform, I want us to continue to lift each other up. It’s a beautiful thing when we can be vulnerable, speak openly about how we feel, and know that there’s no shame in asking for help, especially as Black women. We are amazing, resilient, and strong. We should always know that we are special and that we belong. As I step into my 25th year of life with my baby, I feel so grateful, honored, and thankful for the kindness and support I’ve received.”
Halle’s advocacy and leadership were further recognized with multiple honors, including an Appreciation Certificate from Los Angeles County Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell, a Recognition Certificate from Mayor Karen Bass, commendations from Councilwoman Heather Hutt and U.S. Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager-Dove, and an award from State Assemblymember Sade Elhawary of the 57th District.
Dr. Nomsa Khalfani was presented with the Health Equity Award for her work in advancing health equity within the Los Angeles community.
In addition to the honoree ceremony, summit attendees enjoyed R&B yoga and sound bowl sessions, a community baby shower for expecting mothers, and workshops on funding resources and doula support, along with live performances from local artists and a keynote from Supervisor Holly Mitchell.
Image credit: Project Pit/Von Robinson
