Spokane’s Shades of Motherhood Network proudly hosted Theresa Fortune as the keynote speaker for this year’s Black Maternal Health Conference, held April 12 at WSU’s Downtown Campus during Black Maternal Health Week. Her powerful advocacy, personal journey, and deep commitment to advancing maternal health equity made her the perfect voice to lead this vital conversation.
In a deeply moving keynote, Theresa shared her personal battle with postpartum depression (PPD) following the birth of her child, reminding us that maternal health is not just about physical well-being – it encompasses emotional and mental health too.
What is Postpartum Depression (PPD)?
Postpartum depression is a serious mental health condition that can affect birthing people after childbirth, causing intense feelings of sadness, anxiety, exhaustion and detachment from their baby or life itself. Without support, it can severely impact a mother’s ability to heal and bond with her child. Theresa’s openness helped destigmatize this important issue, offering hope to mothers who may still be suffering in silence.
Adding another powerful layer to her story, Theresa is the creator of the film From the Ashes, which chronicles her journey through pain, healing, and resilience. Through her storytelling, she sheds light on the realities of postpartum depression and the strength it takes to rise from life’s most challenging moments. Her film stands as a testament to the importance of recognizing and treating maternal mental health struggles, particularly within Black communities.
Why Black Maternal Health Week Matters – Especially in Spokane
This year’s conference aligned with Black Maternal Health Week, a national campaign dedicated to raising awareness about the alarming disparities Black birthing people face. In the United States, Black women are three to four times more likely to die from pregnancy-related complications than white women – a crisis that demands urgent action.
Although Spokane is often seen as a smaller, quieter city, Black birthing families here face the same systemic barriers seen across the nation: limited access to culturally competent care, the dismissal of health concerns, and a lack of community resources. Black Maternal Health Week in Spokane serves as a powerful reminder that change must happen locally – not just nationally. It gives voice to mothers and families who deserve to be heard, supported and celebrated.
We are deeply grateful to Theresa Fortune for her courage, storytelling and leadership. Her message inspired attendees to take action, support one another and reimagine a health care system where every Black mother receives the care and dignity she deserves.
A special thank you to our partners and sponsors – the Health Equity Club, the Washington State Department of Health, and Providence Health – for their unwavering commitment to advancing Black maternal health initiatives. Together, we are building a stronger, healthier future for Spokane’s families.