Black History Month is a time to celebrate the accomplishments and contributions of Black communities and individuals, and to honor their legacy. It's a reminder of the ongoing struggle for racial justice and equity, the work we still must do, and an opportunity to recognize the ways in which Black men and women have truly shaped and influenced our society.

Highlighting Black excellence in pregnancy and parenthood

As the month of February comes to an end, we want to highlight some amazing Black-owned businesses that are making a difference in the worlds of pregnancy and parenthood. But our support for these businesses shouldn’t be limited to just one month out of the year. We should and will continue to uplift and support Black-owned businesses all year round, not just as a form of activism, but because they provide valuable products and services that benefit us all. In this blog, we'll be introducing you to three amazing Black-owned companies who are promoting inclusivity, diversity, and representation in the prenatal and parenting space.

Meet Mama Glow

Mama Glow is an excellent resource all expectant mamas should be aware of. A wellness and maternity brand dedicated to empowering women. Founded by Latham Thomas, a celebrity doula, and maternal health advocate, Mama Glow was one of the first companies to offer doula support at every stage of labor and childbearing. The company provides a range of services to support women on their journey through motherhood, including these amazing doula services, prenatal and postpartum yoga, childbirth education, and lifestyle coaching. Mama Glow, a partner with so many incredible organizations like March of Dimes, is dedicated to empowering women to take control of their pregnancy and childbirth experience. Whether you’re looking for doula services related to fertility or childbearing or if you’re looking to learn more about even becoming a doula yourself- Mama Glow may be just for you!

As the month of February comes to an end, we want to highlight some amazing Black-owned businesses that are making a difference in the worlds of pregnancy and parenthood.

Meet STINA & MAE

Named after her grandmother Ernestine “Stina” and her great grandmother Susie Mae, Mishell Ekunsirinde created STINA & MAE as a labor and legacy of love. Beginning with the inception of a changing mat to meet the needs for her own first born, Mishell sought to create functional baby burp cloths, bibs, blankets, and hats that were made with highest quality materials – without skimping on style. Using 100% organic cotton Stina & Mae remains committed to offering sustainable and nonabrasive materials to cute your baby looking cute and feeling comfortable. The company also stands by a mission of creating a social impact. Partnering with organizations dedicating to that same mission, Stina & Mae donates 2% of annual revenue to help fight childhood hunger and bring awareness to issues surrounding maternal health and wellness, while also ensuring manufacture workers are paid a fair and living wage. With products available on Nordstrom.com and Target.com, Stina & Mae is a company and brand that you might want to welcome along your pregnancy or introduce to others.

Meet PROUDLY™ 

Co-founded by Gabrielle Union and Dwyane Wade, PROUDLY™ was created with the goal of celebrating melanated skin. The company offers a range of products designed in partnership with a Dermatologist of Color, specially formulated for little ones of all shades. Providing clean, and functional baby care products for everyone but especially families of color, Proudly™ is committed to promoting inclusivity and representation in the parenting space, and its mission is to empower families to express their unique identities and experiences. In addition to offering high-quality and sustainable products, Proudly™ is also dedicated to giving back to communities in need. The company is a proud partner with Miami Diaper Bank and the Wade Family Foundation, providing basic baby essentials for struggling families and communities. 

Continued commitment to accessibility and equality

As a company dedicated to making prenatal information accessible for all, we know how important it is to support Black-owned businesses, especially those focused on pregnancy and parenthood. Let's continue to celebrate and uplift Black voices this Black History Month and beyond. At Juno Diagnostics, we believe everyone should be entitled to a high quality of prenatal care, and our at-home prenatal screens might be able to bridge the gap to ensure equitable access. By supporting companies like Juno and the others highlighted here, you’re not only investing in a product or service, but you’re also contributing to the growth and success of communities and families. 

February 27, 2023 — Juno Diagnostics