Mothers, families, and health advocates gathered on Saturday, August 16, 2025, for the first-ever Maternal Health Summit, a powerful event dedicated to addressing the maternal health crisis in the United States. Hosted by Project Pit in partnership with Los Angeles County Supervisor Holly Mitchell, Baldwin Hills Crenshaw Plaza was transformed into a space for dialogue, healing, and advocacy.
The event recognized the work of GRAMMY-nominated artist and actress Halle Bailey, GRAMMY-winning singer-songwriter and nonprofit founder Faith Evans, and Dr. Nomsa Khalfani, Co-CEO of Essential Access Health, for their dedication to reshaping narratives around maternal and child wellness.
Faith Evans was presented with the Impact Award for her commitment to supporting children and families with disabilities and special needs. She spoke candidly about her son Ryder, who is on the autism spectrum and has been the inspiration behind her nonprofit, Ryder’s Room, which focuses on autism and special needs awareness. “I am very honored to stand here just for being a mother, let alone being a mother to a child of special needs,” Evans shared, moving many in the audience with her words.
Halle Bailey received the Halo Award, named in honor of her son, for her efforts to raise awareness about postpartum depression and maternal mental health. Reflecting on her journey into motherhood as she embraces her 25th year, Bailey highlighted the importance of community and vulnerability. “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.”
The summit marked an important step in building awareness and solutions around maternal health, shining a light on women using their voices and experiences to bring change to their communities.