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When Policy Meets the People

MSK at the Capitol

At BWHI, our policy work is guided by a principle instilled by our founder, Byllye Avery: Black women deserve to influence policy– especially health policy. We belong at the table, making decisions about health insurance coverage, workforce training, and provider reimbursement, as well as decisions that influence social determinants of health. 

We recognize that Black women and girls often experience different, and disproportionate,  health outcomes from the laws and policies that govern the communities we live, work, and play. That’s why BWHI is committed to elevating policy positions, partnerships, programs, and advocacy efforts grounded in science, with the ultimate goal of protecting and expanding health protections for Black women and girls.

Our policy work is organized around five strategic pillars: 

  • Access to Quality and Affordable Health Care
  • Healthy Families and Children First
  • Equitable Governance and Relationships
  • Employment/Education Justice and Equity
  • Technology Access and Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Within these pillars, we have six areas that we focus on: Medicaid, Maternal Health, Reproductive Justice, HIV, Menstrual Equity, and AI/Technology. 

Health policy can be shaped through all three branches of government, each with distinct roles.  The executive branch sets policy through rulemaking; the judicial branch interprets and enforces laws, influencing policy through legal decisions; and the legislative branch creates policies through the passage of bills. 

At BWHI, we prioritize legislative advocacy as our primary strategy for change. Our legislative work follows a three-pronged approach. 

  1. Build expertise, evidence, and support. We engage in research, policy analysis, and coalition partnerships– such as through our work with Black Mamas Matter Alliance and the Cost and Coverage Collaborative.. 
  2. Shape policy and dialogue. This includes briefing Congressional staff on our priority areas and helping to draft bill language. 

Drive towards change and influencing outcomes. We aim to see our efforts result in the introduction, passage, and implementation of legislation that improves the lives of Black women and girls.

Legislative Approach

Even with a perfect strategy, these phases are not always linear. Policy change is complex and takes time, which often requires ongoing effort across multiple stages at the same time. No matter how long the process, BWHI remains steadfast in our commitment to improving the health and wellbeing of Black women and girls through life-saving policy.

Approach Gear

Examples of Our Impact: